Wild Turkey 101 became a brand in the year 1952. This was a significant milestone for the iconic bourbon, as it marked the official introduction of the Wild Turkey name to the world. The brand was established by Austin Nichols, a company that had been involved in the wholesale grocery business since the late 1800s.
The story behind the creation of Wild Turkey is quite interesting. In the early 1940s, Thomas McCarthy, an executive at Austin Nichols, was given the task of finding a supplier for their private label bourbon. McCarthy was introduced to a distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, which had been producing bourbon since the late 1800s. Impressed by the quality of the spirit, McCarthy decided to purchase the entire distillery, including its aging stock and the rights to the Wild Turkey name.
The Wild Turkey brand was initially launched with a lower proof bourbon, but it wasn't until 1952 that Wild Turkey 101 was introduced. This higher-proof version quickly gained popularity among bourbon enthusiasts, and it has since become the flagship expression of the Wild Turkey brand.
The choice to age Wild Turkey for 6 years in virgin white oak barrels is a deliberate one. The aging process imparts flavors and aromas to the bourbon, giving it depth and complexity. The use of virgin barrels means that the bourbon is the first spirit to touch the wood, allowing it to extract unique flavors from the oak. The 6-year aging period is considered optimal for Wild Turkey 101, as it allows the bourbon to develop a rich and robust character.
The proof of Wild Turkey 101, at 50.5%, is higher than the standard 40% found in many bourbons. This higher proof contributes to the bold and intense flavor profile of the whiskey. It is important to note that the proof of the bourbon is determined by the amount of alcohol present in the spirit. In the case of Wild Turkey 101, the higher proof means that it contains a higher percentage of alcohol, making it stronger and more potent than lower proof bourbons.
The decision to put the unaged whiskey into the barrels at a lower proof is a strategic one. By starting with a lower proof, Wild Turkey allows the whiskey to interact more gently with the wood during the aging process. This slower maturation process allows for a more nuanced flavor development, resulting in a well-balanced and complex final product.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing Wild Turkey 101 on numerous occasions. Its bold and robust flavor profile makes it a standout among other bourbons. The higher proof adds a punch of intensity, while the aging process imparts layers of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The result is a whiskey that is both smooth and full-bodied, with a long and satisfying finish.
Wild Turkey 101 became a brand in 1952 and has since become synonymous with high-quality, full-flavored bourbon. Its 6-year aging process and higher proof contribute to its distinctive character, making it a favorite among bourbon aficionados. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Wild Turkey 101 offers a memorable and satisfying drinking experience.