Wild Turkey 8 Year Old

Description

Wild Turkey 8 Year Old Bottling Note

Wild Turkey 8 Year Old 101 Proof is a distinguished bourbon produced at the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Set on a limestone ridge above the Kentucky River, the distillery benefits from naturally filtered water that has long shaped the character of its whiskey. When the standard Wild Turkey 101 in the United States moved to a non‑age‑statement format in the 1990s, the 8‑year‑old version continued to be bottled primarily for the Japanese market, where it remained a long‑standing favourite. Its steady presence abroad helped maintain interest in the age‑stated style, ultimately contributing to its full return to the American market in 2025.

The identity of Wild Turkey is closely tied to the Russell family, particularly Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, whose decades of experience have guided the distillery’s traditional approach. Wild Turkey 8 Year Old reflects this heritage through its high‑rye mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye and 12% malted barley, a recipe that lends the bourbon its firm structure and lively spice.

Ageing is central to the character of this expression. The whiskey matures for a minimum of eight years in new American oak barrels treated with a No. 4 “alligator” char, the deepest level used in the industry. This heavy charring encourages a strong interaction between spirit and wood, contributing to the depth and richness associated with the bottling. Wild Turkey also fills its barrels at a lower entry proof than many producers, resulting in less dilution at bottling and a naturally fuller flavour.

At 101 proof (50.5% ABV), Wild Turkey 8 Year Old is known for its bold, full‑bodied style. The extended maturation softens the alcohol’s initial heat, revealing a rounded depth supported by oak, spice and a warm underlying sweetness. It stands as a confident, mature expression within the Wild Turkey range, valued for its balance and unmistakably robust Kentucky character.

Wild Turkey 8 Year Old Tasting Note

Nose: Toasted oak and cereal notes lead, with a dry, savoury edge that reflects the high rye content. Hints of muskmelon, underripe banana and a touch of worn leather add depth to the aroma.

Palate: A surge of vanilla, brown sugar and scorched caramel spreads across the palate, joined by the roasted grain and woody character suggested on the nose. The alcohol builds steadily, delivering a firm, almost peppery heat that tingles on the tongue and lips. Beneath this intensity lies a warm sweetness reminiscent of honey seeping from freshly cooked French toast. The texture shows a slight viscosity, combining woody richness with vanilla in a way that feels distinctive yet well judged.

Finish: Black pepper, charred oak and leather become more pronounced, supported by a lingering sweetness. Subtle hints of banana and green melon appear in the background, giving a medium‑length finish with a faintly earthy freshness.

Overall: This bourbon delivers the classic vanilla and solvent‑like lift associated with the style, but in a controlled, measured way that never feels abrasive. Despite its higher strength and assertive heat, it maintains a balanced, approachable character with enough depth to stand out from standard 101‑proof releases. The interplay of sweetness, spice and alcohol creates an energetic, enjoyable profile. While its intensity may be challenging for newcomers, it is a rewarding and impressively composed bourbon for those who already appreciate American whiskey.