Wild Turkey 101 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
50.5% ABV
$20-$25
Website
What the Distillery Says:
Wild Turkey 101 is a 101 proof (50.5% alcohol) bourbon that is a marriage of primarily 6-, 7-, and 8-year-old bourbons. Jimmy Russell notes that unlike some of its competitors, “Wild Turkey 101 has an exceptionally gentle and rich aroma for a high-proof bourbon, thanks to quality at all stages of its production.”
At first taste, 101 is rich with vanilla and caramel, with notes of honey, brown sugar, and a hint of tobacco. Its high proof contributes to its bolder flavor.
Wild Turkey 101 is the benchmark in bourbon, best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. It’s also excellent in more sophisticated cocktails.
What Richard Says:
Nose: From the bottle to the glass this is surprisingly coy. Leave it in the glass a few minutes and sweet caramel, vanilla extract, and honeysuckles begin to come out. Water makes it more orange-like and overpowers the other elements.
Palate: Nothing coy here. Straight forward bourbon goodness. Vanilla, oak, and pepper dominate. Water makes this on a little sweeter but doesn’t really change the profile.
Finish: Heavy on the wood and an interesting blend of pepper spices.
Comments: Wild Turkey 101 is one of those everyday standard bearer bourbons. Some surprise you (Buffalo Trace), some disappoint you (Jim Beam White Label), and some give you exactly what you’re expecting. Wild Turkey 101 falls into the last category. It’s not the hottest girl at the party but you don’t ever regret taking her home.
Rating: Average