Wild Turkey 8/101 1987

From the hallowed stills of Austin Nichols, the 1987 bottling of Wild Turkey offers a glimpse into a golden era of bourbon. This 8-year-old, 101-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to timeless craftsmanship, delivering a powerful yet harmoniously aged profile that speaks of tradition and unyielding flavor.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating initial wave of rich caramel and toasted oak, intertwined with sweet vanilla bean and a pronounced, almost marzipan-like almond note. Underlying elements of dried sultanas, dark cherry, and a hint of worn leather emerge, framed by a delicate spice bouquet of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Palate: A robust and full-bodied entry that immediately fills the mouth with complex layers of butterscotch, dark chocolate, and candied orange peel. The 101 proof asserts itself with a pleasant warmth, carrying forward flavors of roasted nuts, tobacco leaf, and a distinct peppery rye spice. Hints of espresso and a subtle herbaceous note provide depth, showcasing remarkable balance between sweetness and oak influence.

Finish: Long, lingering, and exceptionally dry, this bourbon leaves a lasting impression of charred oak, dark vanilla, and baking spices. The warmth dissipates slowly, giving way to a pleasant bitterness of cocoa and a memory of dried fruit, culminating in an elegant, structured conclusion.

About the Distillery

Austin Nichols, the company behind Wild Turkey, boasts a storied history in the American whiskey landscape, tracing its roots back to 1855. While best known for the bold, high-rye distillation profile established by legendary Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, the distillery has consistently produced expressions known for their robust character and distinctive 'gobble' mark of quality.