Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey 40,5%

A softer entry point into Wild Turkey's powerful Lawrenceburg heritage.

Expert description

Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a milder version of the brand's core expression, bottled at 40.5%. Wild Turkey's story begins with the Irish immigrant Ripy family, who settled in Kentucky in the 1800s, with Thomas Ripy founding the first version of the distillery in 1869 on Wild Turkey Hill in Lawrenceburg. The name comes from an annual hunting trip, where a distillery executive shared his bourbon with friends who were out hunting wild turkeys. Jimmy Russell started working at the distillery in 1954 and was named the distillery's third master distiller in 1967 — a role he still holds over 70 years later, making him the world's longest-tenured active master distiller. He is known as the creator of the recipe behind Wild Turkey 101, the brand's core product.

Tasting notes

Nose

The nose is soft with caramel, vanilla and lightly toasted oak.

Palate

The palate is round and sweet with caramel, honey and a hint of spice.

Finish

The finish is medium-length, warm and lightly sweet.

Specifications

Name: Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey
Distillery: Wild Turkey Distillery
Region/Country: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV: 40.5%
Size: 70 CL

Flavour profile

Soft · Sweet · Rounded · Caramel

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Frequently asked questions about Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey

Where does the name Wild Turkey come from?

The name comes from an annual hunting trip, where a distillery executive shared his bourbon with friends who were out hunting wild turkeys.

Who is Jimmy Russell?

Jimmy Russell is Wild Turkey's legendary master distiller, who has worked at the distillery since 1954 and has been master distiller since 1967 — the world's longest-tenured active master distiller.

How is Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey best served?

Neat, on the rocks, or in classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned.

What's the difference between this and 101 Proof?

This edition is bottled at a lower strength, 40.5% versus 50.5% in the 101 Proof edition, giving a softer, more approachable tasting experience.

How should Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey 40,5% be stored?

Standing upright, cool and dark, like any other spirits bottle. Once opened, the contents keep best if enjoyed within a year or so.

Is Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey 40,5% a good gift idea?

Yes, Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey Kentucky Straight Whiskey 40,5% is a natural choice for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship and characterful flavour experiences — especially for the whisky enthusiast keen to explore beyond the most familiar names.