As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste a wide range of spirits, including Wild Turkey Bourbon. When it comes to the taste of Wild Turkey Bourbon, it is a subjective matter as everyone's palate is different. However, I can provide you with my personal insights and experiences.
Wild Turkey 12 Year 101 Bourbon has a range of flavors that can be quite enjoyable. It starts off with a pleasant sweetness, which is complemented by fruity notes. The sweetness can be reminiscent of caramel or vanilla, adding a smooth and comforting element to the overall taste. The fruitiness adds a touch of brightness and complexity, with hints of berries or citrus.
Additionally, there is a subtle herbalness present in this bourbon, which adds an interesting dimension to the flavor profile. It can bring to mind notes of mint or even sage, adding a refreshing quality to the overall taste experience.
Furthermore, the oak and spice notes in this bourbon provide a depth and complexity that many bourbon enthusiasts appreciate. The oak imparts a woody and slightly smoky flavor, while the spice adds a warming and lingering sensation on the palate. These elements contribute to the overall richness and character of the bourbon.
However, there is one aspect of the taste that I personally find slightly off-putting. Towards the finish, there is a rush of youthful grain, oak, and bitterness that can make the bourbon taste a little immature. This bitterness can be a detracting factor for some, as it may overshadow the more nuanced flavors present in the bourbon.
In my opinion, while Wild Turkey 12 Year 101 Bourbon has its positive attributes in terms of sweetness, fruitiness, herbalness, oak, and spice, the presence of youthful grain and bitterness can make it taste slightly less refined and mature. This is not to say that it is a bad bourbon, but rather a personal preference and observation.
Ultimately, the enjoyment of Wild Turkey Bourbon, or any bourbon for that matter, is subjective and dependent on individual taste preferences. I encourage you to try it for yourself and form your own opinion based on your unique palate.