I recently had the pleasure of trying Wild Turkey 101 bourbon from the 2006 bottling. As a bourbon enthusiast, I was excited to see how this older release stacked up against the current version of Wild Turkey 101.

Wild Turkey 101 2006 Overview

Product History

Wild Turkey 101 is a bourbon whiskey that has been around for over 60 years. It is made by the Austin Nichols Distilling Company in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Wild Turkey 101 is a high-proof bourbon that is aged for approximately 6–8 years in virgin white oak barrels.

The 2006 version of Wild Turkey 101 is highly sought-after by bourbon enthusiasts. It is considered to be one of the best years for Wild Turkey 101 due to its rich and complex flavors. The 2006 version has a higher rye content than other years, which gives it a spicier flavor profile.

Price Range

The price of Wild Turkey 101 can vary depending on the size of the bottle and the location of the store. A 750ml bottle of Wild Turkey 101 typically costs between $20-$25. However, the price of the 2006 version can be much higher due to its rarity and high demand among collectors.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma

As I bring the glass to my nose, I’m greeted with a sweet aroma of vanilla and caramel. The scent of oak is also present, but it’s not overpowering. I can detect a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, which gives it a warm and inviting quality.

Flavor

On the first sip, I tasted the sweetness of honey and maple syrup. The flavors of vanilla and caramel come through as well, but they’re not as prominent as they were in the aroma. I also detect a slight spiciness, which I attribute to the rye in the mash bill. The flavors are well-balanced, and nothing is overpowering.

Finish

The finish is long and satisfying. The sweetness of the honey and maple syrup lingers on the tongue, but it’s not cloying. The spiciness also lingers, but it’s not overwhelming. The oak flavor becomes more pronounced towards the end, which gives it a pleasant woody taste.

Rating

I would rate Wild Turkey 101 2006 as an excellent bourbon. It has a well-balanced flavor profile that is both sweet and spicy. The finish is long and satisfying, and the aroma is inviting. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give it a solid 8.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

When it comes to mixing Wild Turkey 101 2006, I prefer to keep it simple with a classic cola or ginger ale. The sweetness of these mixers complements the bold and spicy flavors of the bourbon, making for a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail. For those who prefer a more citrusy flavor, lemon-lime soda or orange juice can also work well with Wild Turkey 101.

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Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re looking to step up your cocktail game, try mixing Wild Turkey 101 with some fresh herbs and fruit. A mint julep with muddled mint and a splash of simple syrup is a classic choice, while a bourbon sour with lemon juice and a dash of bitters is a tangy and refreshing option. For a fruity twist, try a bourbon peach tea with iced tea, peach schnapps, and a splash of lemon juice.

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Food Pairings

Wild Turkey 101 2006 pairs well with a variety of foods, from hearty meats to sweet desserts. For a savory pairing, try a grilled steak or a plate of barbecue ribs. The bold flavors of the bourbon complement the smoky and rich flavors of the meat. For a sweet pairing, try a slice of pecan pie or a chocolate dessert. The caramel and vanilla notes of the bourbon complement the sweetness of the dessert, making for a delicious and indulgent treat.

Conclusion

I highly recommend Wild Turkey 101 2006 for anyone looking for a flavorful and affordable bourbon. Its unique flavor profile and smooth finish make it a standout in its category. So, if you haven’t tried it yet, I suggest you give it a shot. Cheers!

Related Posts

If you enjoyed my review of Wild Turkey 101 2006, you might be interested in checking out some of my other whiskey reviews. Here are a few related posts that you might find interesting:

• Reviewing Bruichladdich’s Octomore 10 years old (2nd edition): If you’re a fan of peaty scotch, you’ll definitely want to check out this review of Bruichladdich’s Octomore 10 year old. This is a bold, smoky whisky that’s not for the faint of heart.
• Reviewing Teeling 24 Years Old: This is a review of Teeling’s 24 year old expression, which is one of the oldest bottlings of Irish whiskey on the market. It’s a complex and flavorful whiskey that’s definitely worth trying.
• Reviewing new Tobermory 21 (Manzanilla Cask Finish): If you’re looking for something a bit different, you might want to check out this review of Tobermory’s 21 year old expression, which has been finished in manzanilla casks. It’s a unique and interesting whiskey that’s sure to impress.
• Reviewing Highland Park Fire Edition: This is a review of Highland Park’s Fire Edition, which is part of a two-part series of special edition bottlings that celebrate myths and legends of the Viking age. If you’re a fan of Highland Park, you won’t want to miss this one.
• Reviewing Mackmyra rum-finished expression Vinterdröm: Finally, if you’re interested in trying something from Sweden’s first whisky distillery, you might want to check out this review of Mackmyra’s rum-finished expression Vinterdröm. It’s a unique and flavorful whiskey that’s definitely worth trying.