Wild Turkey 8-year 101 1983 (low fill)

Experience a true piece of bourbon history with the Wild Turkey Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 1983. Bottled at a classic 101 proof and aged for 8 years, this vintage expression offers a profound journey into the bold and complex flavors that defined Wild Turkey's golden age. A rare opportunity to savor a legendary bourbon from a bygone era.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A profound and inviting aroma opens with deep caramel and rich vanilla, underscored by a prominent baking spice medley of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove. Waves of dried dark fruit, like fig and dried cherry, emerge, beautifully balanced by earthy oak and a subtle nuttiness, perhaps roasted pecans. A whisper of aged leather and a faint tobacco leaf note add complexity, speaking to its age and the 101 proof point.

Palate: The entry is robust and full-bodied, immediately presenting a warming spice surge characteristic of Wild Turkey's higher proof expressions from this era. Sweetness blossoms with caramelized sugar, dark honey, and a touch of maple, quickly followed by a powerful, yet integrated, oak influence. Notes of toasted nuts, dark chocolate, and a slight bitterness reminiscent of espresso provide depth. The dried fruit from the nose reappears, richer and more concentrated, mingling with a peppery rye spice that tingles the mid-palate. This is a classic, old-school Wild Turkey profile, assertive yet refined.

Finish: Long, lingering, and incredibly satisfying. The warmth persists, carrying flavors of charred oak, dark spice, and a velvety smooth caramel that slowly fades. A pleasant tannic grip reminds you of its 8 years in wood, evolving into a lingering sweetness intertwined with a subtle smoky character and a final echo of baking spices. The 101 proof makes its presence known without being harsh, leaving a dry, sophisticated aftertaste.

About the Distillery

Austin, Nichols Distilling Company, the original name for Wild Turkey Distillery, boasts a rich heritage rooted in rye whiskey production before pivoting to bourbon. Under master distillers like Jimmy Russell, they've upheld a tradition of crafting robust, high-rye bourbons, often bottled at higher proofs to preserve their distinctive character. This 1983 bottling represents a golden era for the distillery, showcasing their dedication to quality and traditional methods.