Wild Turkey 101 8-Year Straight Bourbon 2025 Review & Tasting Notes
Wild Turkey has strategically reintroduced its 8-Year-Old Bourbon to the U.S. market with a competitive price point of $45, marking its permanent availability in the domestic portfolio after decades of overseas exclusivity. A high rye mash bill. This offering features a taste and is expertly distilled at a lower proof to intensify its flavor profile, attracting casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Wild Turkey's 8-Year-Old Bourbon reemergence coincides with an increasing consumer demand for age-stated whiskies in the U.S. market, prized for their superior quality and flavor consistency. Due to its prolonged maturation, this Bourbon delivers enriched flavor complexities. It offers intricate toffee, clove, and dried fruit notes and a full-bodied palate shaped by Rye and charred oak influences.
Previously confined to international markets, the 8-Year-Old Bourbon adeptly fills a niche within Wild Turkey's U.S. offerings, bridging the spectrum between the classic Wild Turkey 101 and the cask-strength Rare Breed. The decision to make this Bourbon widely available stems from the positive reception of a special release commemorating Master Distiller Jimmy Russell's 70th Anniversary, underscoring a robust market demand for such a distinguished product.
Appearance: Golden amber
Nose: The nose is welcoming. The aroma is rich with dark roasted caramel, toasted vanilla, charred oak, cinnamon, licorice, clove, nutmeg, a little dried apple and orange, and just a hint of strawberry and cherries.
Palate: The whiskey's distinguished profile is characterized by the rich flavors of roasted caramel and vanilla, seamlessly transitioning to hints of toasted oak, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. Complementary undertones of cocoa powder, licorice, apple, and orange enhance the experience. Wild Turkey 101 8 Year is known for its robust, spice-forward character, tempered by a pleasantly subdued alcohol presence. The mid-palate unveils sophisticated layers of vanilla and caramel, with a subtle cherry note, all softened by the gentle warmth of cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and nutmeg. Adding a traditional Kentucky chew reveals a peppery heat and a persistent layer of barrel char.
Finish: The finish is long and elegantly dissipates, with a gentle, lingering presence. It features warm cinnamon, gentle peppercorn spice, light charred oak, and a hint of cardamom spice.
Final Thoughts: Wild Turkey 101 8 Year represents a significant enhancement over the non-age-stated Wild Turkey 101, offering a more mature aroma, taste, and depth. The 8-year-old edition boasts greater nuance and sophistication. What's not to appreciate? While the 2025 release of the Wild Turkey 101 8-year may not mirror the profile of Jimmy's 70th, it's close and surpasses the non-age-stated 101. Indeed, it stands out as a substantial upgrade from Wild Turkey 101 and justifies its $45 retail price. Although Rare Breed is available for $10-$15 more, this product caters to those who prefer Bourbon with a more approachable ABV. I commend the revival of Wild Turkey's classic eight-year expression. The new Wild Turkey 101 8-year delivers commendable age, proof, and price, offering an exceptional choice for discerning bourbon enthusiasts.
Side note: I pick up my Bottle of Wild Turkey 101 8-year on sale for $37.00. Under 40 dollars you can’t go wrong.
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