Wild Turkey Freedom (no tube)

The year 2002 offered a unique expression of Wild Turkey's enduring legacy, bottled as FREEDOM Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey at a robust 106 proof. This special release from a bygone era delivers a rich tapestry of classic Wild Turkey flavors, showcasing mature oak, dried fruits, and a tantalizing spice that speaks to its meticulous craftsmanship.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating initial wave of rich caramel and toasted vanilla bean, quickly followed by deeper notes of dried dark fruits like fig and apricot. Hints of worn leather, baking spices (nutmeg, cinnamon), and a subtle earthy tobacco leaf emerge, with a touch of aged oak and a whisper of orange zest providing brightness.

Palate: The palate arrives with a robust and satisfying warmth, immediately delivering a burst of brown sugar and sweet oak. It's wonderfully complex, showcasing layers of dark chocolate, maraschino cherry, and a surprising nuttiness (roasted almond). The 106 proof makes its presence known with a pleasant, controlled spice – black pepper and clove – that interplays beautifully with the underlying sweetness. A velvety texture coats the mouth, leaving a lingering impression of complex wood and dark fruit.

Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally satisfying. The spice lingers harmoniously, evolving into a sweet, dry oak and leathery character. Notes of dark caramel, a hint of coffee, and a lingering sense of tobacco leaf persist, inviting another sip. The proof manifests as a gentle, comforting heat that fades gracefully.

About the Distillery

Wild Turkey Distillery, nestled in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, boasts a storied history dating back to 1869. Renowned for its distinctive high-rye mash bill and commitment to aging in deeply charred new American oak barrels, Wild Turkey has consistently produced full-flavored, authentic Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey under the watchful eyes of legendary master distillers like Jimmy and Eddie Russell.