As a fan of Wild Turkey’s flagship 101 bourbon, I was excited to try this age-stated expression. The Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is a classic bourbon that has been aged for eight years, giving it added depth and complexity.
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Wild Turkey 101 8-Year Overview
Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is a friendly and approachable bourbon that is perfect for sipping neat or mixing in a classic cocktail. It’s not overly complex, but it provides a really good reminder that if you focus on the fundamentals, you can still provide a solid experience for the drinker.
Product History
Wild Turkey 101 8-Year has a rich history dating back to the 1940s, when the brand was first established. It is a blend of extra-aged barrels, aged for a minimum of 8 years. The aging process gives the bourbon a smooth and complex flavor profile that is sure to please any bourbon enthusiast.
Price Range
Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is a premium bourbon, and as such, it is priced accordingly. The price range for a bottle of Wild Turkey 101 8-Year can vary depending on where you purchase it. On average, you can expect to pay around $50 for a bottle of this bourbon, although prices can range from $40 to $60.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
The aroma of Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is rich and complex. The nose is filled with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. There are also hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, which add a nice spice to the aroma. The high proof of 101 is also evident in the nose, with a slight alcohol burn that is not overpowering.
Flavor
The flavor of Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is bold and robust. The first sip is filled with notes of caramel and oak, which give way to a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. The high proof of 101 adds a nice kick and warmth to each sip. The flavor is well-balanced and not overly sweet, making it a great sipping bourbon.
Finish
The finish of Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is long and smooth. The oak and caramel notes linger on the tongue, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add a nice spice to the finish. The high proof of 101 is also evident in the finish, with a slight alcohol burn that is not overpowering. The finish is well-balanced and not overly dry, making it a great sipping bourbon.
Rating
Overall, I would give Wild Turkey 101 8-Year a rating of 9 out of 10. The rich and complex aroma, bold and robust flavor, and long and smooth finish make it a great sipping bourbon. The high proof of 101 adds a nice kick and warmth to each sip, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bold and flavorful bourbon.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Wild Turkey 101 8-Year, I prefer to keep it simple. This bourbon has a complex flavor profile, so I suggest using mixers that complement its flavors rather than overpower them. Some of my favorite mixers for Wild Turkey 101 8-Year include:
- Ginger beer
- Cola
- Lemonade
- Sweet vermouth
- Orange bitters
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for some cocktail inspiration, here are a few suggestions that I think work particularly well with Wild Turkey 101 8-Year:
- Kentucky Mule: Mix Wild Turkey 101 8-Year with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule.
- Old Fashioned: Combine Wild Turkey 101 8-Year with a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water. Garnish with an orange twist for a classic cocktail that never goes out of style.
- Boulevardier: This cocktail is a twist on the classic Negroni, substituting bourbon for gin. Mix Wild Turkey 101 8-Year with sweet vermouth and Campari for a bitter, complex drink that’s perfect for sipping.
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Food Pairings
Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is a versatile bourbon that pairs well with a range of foods. Here are a few suggestions for what to eat while you’re sipping on this delicious bourbon:
- Barbecue: The smoky, sweet flavors of barbecue are a natural match for Wild Turkey 101 8-Year. Try pairing it with pulled pork, brisket, or ribs for a match made in heaven.
- Steak: The bold, complex flavors of Wild Turkey 101 8-Year can stand up to a hearty steak. Try pairing it with a ribeye or New York strip for a decadent meal.
- Chocolate: The rich, sweet flavors of chocolate are a perfect match for Wild Turkey 101 8-Year. Try pairing it with a dark chocolate dessert for a decadent treat.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed my experience with Wild Turkey 101 8-Year. The age statement adds a level of complexity to the flavor profile that really sets it apart from other bourbons in the same price range. The high proof also adds a nice kick and warmth to each sip.
Wild Turkey 101 8-Year is a standout bourbon that is sure to impress both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of whiskey.
Related Posts
As a whiskey enthusiast, I always enjoy exploring different brands and expressions. If you’re also interested in trying out some new spirits, here are a few other posts from The Whisky Lady that you might find interesting:
- Daffy’s Gin: the most cosmopolitan of Scottish gins (giveaway inside!): If you’re looking to branch out from whiskey, this post is a great introduction to a fantastic Scottish gin.
- Reviewing Knappogue Castle 16 Twin Wood: This post takes a closer look at another whiskey brand, Knappogue Castle, and their 16-year-old expression.
- Dream Dram: Glen Moray Mastery on the tasting table!: For those who are interested in trying out a unique whiskey blend, this post explores Glen Moray’s MASTERY expression.
- A closer look at the new Highland Park Valkyrie: This post delves into the story behind Highland Park’s Valkyrie expression, a whiskey inspired by Viking warriors.
- Great Value Drams: Knappogue Castle 12 years old: Another post exploring Knappogue Castle whiskey, this time focusing on their 12-year-old expression.