Distillery: Wild Turkey
Proof: 116.8
Age: No Age Statement (blend of 6, 8, and 12-year-old bourbons)
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Price: ~$60
Company
Founded in 1869 in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, Wild Turkey Distillery has established itself as a prominent bourbon producer. Led by master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, the company is known for crafting exceptional bourbons such as Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed Rye. They employ an extended aging process, allowing their bourbons to develop rich flavors and distinctive character.
Production
As mentioned on their site, Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a small-batch, barrel-proof bourbon crafted from a blend of 6-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons, and bottled without added water.
The bourbon matures in No. 4 “alligator” charred American White Oak barrels and has been stored in historic rick houses since the 1890s.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Review
Nose
The nose of Wild Turkey Rare Breed presents a pleasing combination of oak, licorice, vanilla, slight caramel, orange peel, and rye. It offers a surprising sweetness compared to typical Wild Turkey expressions.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 4.25/5 | 4/5 | 4.13/5 |
Palate
The palate reveals initial rye flavors alongside notes of caramel, leather, and orange. The sweetness and spice are well-balanced, with the spice intensifying as you chew. There is also a hint of pleasant tobacco flavor, adding depth and complexity.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 4.25/5 | 4/5 | 4.13/5 |
Finish
The finish maintains its underlying sweetness while showcasing rye spice and heat. It lingers with flavors of caramel, oak, orange, and leather. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a warm sensation that gently embraces your tongue.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 4.25/5 |
Value
Wild Turkey Rare Breed offers a solid value at around $60. However, compared to other bourbons in this price range, it may be slightly overpriced. Despite this, it possesses a distinct uniqueness and character that appeals to those who enjoy a spicy and powerful profile.
For individuals seeking alternatives within this price range, I would personally recommend considering Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel, which offers comparable qualities.
| Inspector’s Score | Insider’s Score | Average Score |
|---|---|---|
| 3.75/5 | 4/5 | 3.88/5 |
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Review: The Verdict
4.1/5
We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.
Scoring System:
- Platinum – 4.25 – 5
- Gold – 3.25 – 4.24
- Silver – 2.75 – 3.24
- Bronze – <2.75
Hunter Branch is the Founder and Director of Editorial for Bourbon Inspector. He has been writing about and professionally reviewing bourbon since 2020 (and has been drinking it for much longer). He’s been able to interview big names in the bourbon industry like Trey Zoeller from Jefferson’s Bourbon and his work has been featured in publications like TastingTable, Mashed, and more.