As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Wild Turkey 101 is not a wheated bourbon. This conclusion is based on my personal experience and knowledge in the industry.
During a blind tasting session with my colleagues, we were given a sample that we all initially believed to be a wheated bourbon. We noted that it lacked the characteristic spice usually associated with bourbons and assumed it to be a wheated variety. However, to our surprise, when we revealed the bottle, it turned out to be Wild Turkey 101.
This unexpected revelation left us all stunned. We were certain that Wild Turkey 101 was not a wheated bourbon, as it displayed a distinct flavor profile that was more in line with traditional bourbon styles. It had a robust and full-bodied character, with a noticeable kick of spice on the palate.
To confirm our initial assessment, we decided to repour Wild Turkey 101 and compare it side by side with the blind sample. Much to our amazement, they were indeed identical in taste and aroma. This confirmed that Wild Turkey 101 was not a wheated bourbon, contrary to our initial assumption.
It is important to note that wheated bourbons, such as the famous Pappy Van Winkle and Maker's Mark, are made using a higher proportion of wheat in the mash bill, instead of the more commonly used grain, corn. This results in a softer, smoother, and less spicy flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons.
Wild Turkey 101, on the other hand, follows a more traditional bourbon recipe, which typically includes a higher percentage of corn in the mash bill. This gives it a bolder, spicier flavor profile that distinguishes it from wheated bourbons.
Based on our blind tasting experience and subsequent comparisons, it is clear that Wild Turkey 101 is not a wheated bourbon. Its robust and spicy nature aligns it more closely with traditional bourbon styles, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts looking for a bold and flavorful experience.