Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky 40,5%

Wild Turkey cultivates rye's spicy character with the same craft as its bourbons.

Expert description

Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky is the brand's rye-based 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 offers spiced rye, pepper and a hint of caramel.

Palate

The palate is spicy and full with rye, caramel and a hint of citrus.

Finish

The finish is medium-length, spiced and lightly peppery.

Specifications

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

Flavour profile

Spicy · Rye · Full-bodied · Pepper

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Frequently asked questions about Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky

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 Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky best served?

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

How does the rye edition differ from the bourbon editions?

Where the bourbons are dominated by corn, this is a rye-based whiskey with a drier, spicier character.

Is Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky 40,5% a good gift idea?

Yes, Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky 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.

How should Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky 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.