To determine the age of a Wild Turkey bottle, you can refer to the date code that is laser coded directly on the bottle. The date code follows the format LL/ZZ######, with the LL representing the two-letter abbreviation for the month and ZZ representing the last two digits of the year. The six-digit number following the month and year represents the day and batch number.
For example, if you come across a bottle with the date code 03/14######, it means that the bottle was filled in March of 2014. The six-digit number following the date code indicates the specific day and batch number of the bottling.
This date coding system was implemented by Wild Turkey in 2014 when they moved their bottling operations back to Lawrenceburg, KY. Prior to this, Wild Turkey used a different coding system, so it's important to note that the new date code only applies to bottles produced since 2014.
When examining a Wild Turkey bottle, you will find the date code laser coded below the back label toward the base of the bottle. It may require you to tilt the bottle or use a light source to clearly see the code.
It's worth mentioning that this date code is specific to Wild Turkey bottles and may not be applicable to other whiskey brands. Each distillery or producer might have its own unique coding system or labeling practices.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, deciphering date codes on bottles can be an exciting and informative process. It allows me to gain insight into the age and production details of the beverage, providing a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and history behind it.
Understanding the age of a Wild Turkey bottle can be particularly fascinating, as it offers a glimpse into the aging process and how different batches may vary in flavor profiles. It's interesting to compare bottles from different years or even different months within the same year to observe any nuances or changes that may have occurred.
The date code on a Wild Turkey bottle is a valuable tool for determining its age and can enhance your enjoyment and knowledge of the whiskey. So, the next time you come across a bottle of Wild Turkey, take a moment to decipher the date code and embark on a journey to uncover its unique story.