Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit
(Bottled 5/19/2017, barrel 902, whs H, rick 4; Sherlock’s Selection)
50.5% ABV
$60
Website
What the Distiller Says
Kentucky Spirit is a 101 proof (50.5% alcohol), single-barrel bourbon, with each barrel personally chosen by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell. Known for being fuller bodied, with rich vanilla flavors and a hint of sweetness, it’s the perfect bourbon to enjoy neat. A complex layering of almonds, honey, blackberries, and leather gives way to a long, dark and lingering finish.
What Gary Says
Nose: Caramel and vanilla mix with rickhouse-oak; subtle cinnamon and allspice; a tad astringent.
Palate: Burnt salted caramel w/ spiced apple over oak.
Finish: Moderate in length, with drying pepper spice.
Comments: Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit is a single barrel Wild Turkey product, and as such there is some variability. The glass bottle itself is lovely – honestly the main reason I bought this particular bottle as I’d heard they might be changing the vessel. As a single barrel product – some are amazing, while others are simply alright (and there’s always a chance one is lousy – although in my experience this is rare). This one is pretty decent, but not amazing (for my taste buddies). It has a fair amount of oak but not too much – and is a bit sharp around the edges; although it takes some water like a champ and really rounds out nicely without losing its rye spice.
Rating: Stands Out