Is Wild Turkey Bourbon Good? A Deep Dive into the Kentucky Classic
In short: Yes, Wild Turkey Bourbon is generally considered very good, offering a bold and flavorful experience at an accessible price point.
A Brief History of Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey’s story begins in 1869 with the Ripy family, who established a distillery in Tyrone, Kentucky. While the name “Wild Turkey” wasn’t officially adopted until 1940, courtesy of distillery executive Thomas McCarthy’s penchant for sharing his bourbon on turkey hunting trips, the brand quickly gained recognition for its high-quality, unfiltered style. The brand experienced several changes in ownership over the years, now operating under Campari Group. Despite these changes, Wild Turkey has largely maintained its commitment to traditional bourbon-making methods, resulting in a product celebrated by both casual drinkers and serious connoisseurs.
What Makes Wild Turkey Bourbon Unique?
Several key factors contribute to Wild Turkey’s distinctive character. These include the specific mash bill, the aging process, and the choice to use #4 “alligator char” barrels.
Mash Bill: Wild Turkey primarily uses two different mash bills, a higher rye content (approximately 13%) mash bill, and a rye mash bill (around 37% rye). The higher rye content imparts spice and complexity, differentiating it from many other bourbons that focus on corn’s sweetness.
Aging: Wild Turkey benefits from aging in heavily charred American white oak barrels (typically #4 char, also known as “alligator char”), which intensifies the caramel, vanilla, and spice notes. They have several brands with different aging times.
Distilleries and Expressions: The distillery creates a wide range of bourbons, from its classic 101 proof offering to rare and limited releases. Notable expressions include Wild Turkey 101, Rare Breed, Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old, and the Master’s Keep series. Each offers a slightly different flavor profile, appealing to a broad range of palates.
The Art of Distillation: Wild Turkey’s Process
Wild Turkey’s dedication to quality starts with the selection of non-GMO grains and extends throughout the distilling process.
Milling and Mashing: The grains are carefully milled and mashed to release their sugars.
Fermentation: Yeast is added to convert the sugars into alcohol, creating a “distiller’s beer” or “wash.”
Distillation: The wash undergoes distillation to increase the alcohol concentration and refine the spirit’s flavor.
Aging: The new make spirit is then placed into charred oak barrels for aging, a critical step that imparts color, flavor, and complexity.
Bottling: Finally, the aged bourbon is bottled, sometimes at cask strength (like Rare Breed) or proofed down with water (like Wild Turkey 101).
Tasting Notes: What to Expect from Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey bourbons are known for their bold and assertive flavors. While the exact tasting notes vary between expressions, common characteristics include:
Aroma: Caramel, vanilla, oak, spice (cinnamon, clove), and sometimes hints of dark fruits like cherry or plum.
Palate: The same flavors present in the aroma often carry over to the palate, with the addition of rye spice, butterscotch, and a subtle warmth.
Finish: The finish is typically long and warming, with lingering notes of oak, spice, and caramel.
Comparing Wild Turkey Expressions
Here’s a brief comparison of some popular Wild Turkey expressions:
| Expression | Proof | Key Characteristics | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey 101 | 101 | Bold, spicy, classic bourbon flavor, great value | $25 – $35 |
| Rare Breed | 116.8 (variable) | Cask strength, intense flavors, rich and complex | $50 – $65 |
| Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old | 90 | Balanced, approachable, notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice | $40 – $50 |
| Kentucky Spirit | 101 | Single barrel, unique flavor profile from each barrel | $55 – $70 |
Common Misconceptions About Wild Turkey
Some people misunderstand Wild Turkey, often associating it with being harsh or only for experienced drinkers. While the high proof options like Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed can be potent, they also deliver intense flavor. The Russell’s Reserve line, with its lower proof offerings, provides a more approachable entry point. Another misconception is that all Wild Turkey bourbons are the same. The brand boasts a diverse range of expressions, each with its own unique character and appeal.
Is Wild Turkey Right for You?
Ultimately, whether Wild Turkey is “good” depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoy bold, spicy, and flavorful bourbons, it’s definitely worth exploring. The brand offers a wide range of expressions to suit different tastes and budgets, making it an accessible and rewarding choice for bourbon enthusiasts. It’s also an excellent base for cocktails, lending depth and character to classic recipes like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “101 proof” mean?
“Proof” is a measure of alcohol content. A proof of 101 means the bourbon is 50.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). This higher proof results in a bolder and more intense flavor profile than lower-proof bourbons.
Is Wild Turkey a wheated bourbon?
No, Wild Turkey is not a wheated bourbon. Its mash bill uses rye as the secondary grain, rather than wheat. This gives it its characteristic spicy flavor.
What is the difference between Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed?
Wild Turkey 101 is bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV) and is a blend of bourbons of different ages, including 6, 7, and 8-year-old whiskeys. Rare Breed is bottled at cask strength, meaning it is bottled without any water added to reduce the alcohol content. This results in a higher proof (typically around 116.8 proof), a more intense flavor profile, and a richer mouthfeel. Rare Breed is also a blend of 6, 8, and 12 year old bourbons.
What does “alligator char” mean?
“Alligator char” refers to the level of charring inside the oak barrels used for aging bourbon. Wild Turkey uses #4 char barrels, the highest level, which gives the wood a texture resembling alligator skin. This heavy charring imparts more color, flavor, and complexity to the bourbon.
Is Wild Turkey considered a top-shelf bourbon?
While Wild Turkey offers both budget-friendly and premium options, many of its expressions, such as Rare Breed and the Master’s Keep series, are certainly considered top-shelf bourbons. The perception depends largely on the specific bottle in question and the perspective of the consumer.
Can Wild Turkey be used in cocktails?
Yes, Wild Turkey is excellent in cocktails. Its bold flavor profile stands up well to other ingredients, making it a versatile choice for classic drinks like Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Mint Juleps.
What food pairings go well with Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey’s bold flavors pair well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, barbecue, chocolate desserts, and strong cheeses. The spice notes also complement dishes with a touch of heat.
What is the Russell’s Reserve line of Wild Turkey?
Russell’s Reserve is a premium line of Wild Turkey bourbons named after Master Distiller Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie Russell. These expressions are typically aged longer and offer a more refined and balanced flavor profile than the standard Wild Turkey offerings.
Is Wild Turkey gluten-free?
While bourbon is made from grains that contain gluten, the distillation process typically removes the gluten protein. Therefore, most experts consider bourbon, including Wild Turkey, to be gluten-free. However, individuals with severe sensitivities should exercise caution.
How should Wild Turkey be stored?
Wild Turkey should be stored upright, in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the bourbon’s flavor and prevent the cork from drying out.
How do I drink Wild Turkey?
There’s no single “right” way to drink Wild Turkey. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a splash of water, or in cocktails. Experiment to find what you enjoy most.
Where can I buy Wild Turkey?
Wild Turkey is widely available at liquor stores, supermarkets with liquor sections, and online retailers that sell spirits. Availability may vary depending on your location.