American

Bourbon Review: Wild Turkey 101

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OVERALL
RATING

8

Bourbon Review: Wild Turkey 101

Over the years, Wild Turkey 101 has built a strong reputation as a reliable, flavorful bourbon that consistently over-delivers.
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Tasting Notes:

About:
A world famous batch bourbon from the folks over at Wild Turkey. With a mash-bill of 75% corn, 13% rye and 12% malted barley, Wild Turkey have made themselves famous across the world some of the most consistent and great value products on the market.
Appearance:
Copper
Nose:
Stroop waffles, coffee, cane sugar, brown sugar, rolling tobacco, fresh mint and vanilla pods.
Palate:
So dense and rich. If you’re a fan of single malts like Glendronach then this is the bourbon for you! It’s chewy and rich with toffee, maple syrup, caramel, breakfast waffles, more fresh mint, drying barrel influences, ice cream and Manuka honey.
Finish:
Sweet espresso, brown sugar, toffee, more Stroop waffles, caramel sauce, mint julep cocktails and a drying, lingering spice at the very end,
Comments:
This is a pinnacle of affordable, incredible whisky making. This should be in everyone’s house no mater what the occasion, certainly for celebrations. It’s incredibly wallet friendly, available, consistent and something that you have to try.

Wild Turkey 101 has been a go-to bourbon for decades. With its bold 101-proof (50.5% ABV) kick and rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice, it’s known for delivering more depth than many bourbons at its price point. That’s part of what makes it such a favorite—it balances affordability with serious quality.

Typically found for around $20 to $25 a bottle, it’s a staple for both seasoned whiskey fans and newcomers looking for something with a bit more character. Its versatility also plays a role in its popularity; bartenders love it for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, while many enjoy sipping it neat or on the rocks.

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Over the years, Wild Turkey 101 has built a strong reputation as a reliable, flavorful bourbon that consistently over-delivers.

In fact, the Wild Turkey brand as a whole is renowned for its affordability, with other expressions like Wild Turkey Rare Breed consistently praised.

A Brief History of Wild Turkey

​Wild Turkey’s journey began in 1869 when the Ripy brothers established a distillery on Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Their bourbon gained national attention by representing Kentucky at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.

The brand’s name originated in 1940 when an executive shared the distillery’s bourbon during a wild turkey hunting trip, leading his friends to request more of “that wild turkey bourbon.”

In 1954, Jimmy Russell joined the distillery, becoming master distiller in 1967. His tenure has been pivotal, guiding Wild Turkey through industry challenges and maintaining its commitment to traditional bourbon-making methods. ​

Today, Wild Turkey stands as a symbol of resilience and dedication, producing bourbon that reflects its rich heritage and the enduring passion of the Russell family.

Phil Dwyer

Phil Dwyer's passion for whisky is undeniable. With a decade of experience in whisky retail and nearly as long running Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, Phil is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow whisky lovers. His goal is to make whisky accessible and enjoyable, dispelling the jargon and complexity that can sometimes surround the spirit. In addition to his online presence, Phil manages The Whisky Shop Manchester, where he curates an impressive selection of some of the finest drams available.

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