Finding the perfect bourbon for every occasion can be a daunting task. You don’t want to spoil a rare and expensive bourbon like Pappy Van Winkle by mixing it with ginger ale or cola. That’s basically a crime. Conversely, there are some bourbons that are better left on the shelf, and are definitely not ideal for drinking neat. Trying to nail down a bourbon that tastes good enough to sip but doesn’t feel wrong mixing into a cocktail might feel like you’re looking for an elusive unicorn. However, look no further than Wild Turkey 101, as it’s the best of both worlds.
Wild Turkey Distillery has been producing bourbon for more than 80 years in the state of Kentucky — the bourbon capital of the U.S., though its roots reach all the way back to the mid-1800s. Wild Turkey 101 is aged for six to eight years in a new American White Oak barrel that has undergone an alligator char, meaning it was deeply charred for at least 55 seconds. Resting in a barrel that has an alligator char, combined with its high rye content and a proof of 101, gives it a bold and somewhat peppery flavor, while still containing the more subtle notes that are synonymous with bourbon, such as vanilla, caramel, and orange peel. A 750-ml bottle of Wild Turkey 101 comes in at around $20 a pop, making it an affordable bottom-shelf bourbon that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for cost.
How to enjoy Wild Turkey 101 bourbon
If you’re someone who enjoys a Kentucky Hug (the warm sensation in your throat that you get after a swallow of bourbon), then grab a bottle of Wild Turkey 101 and drink it neat, or add a single, large ice cube. However, this bourbon is equally at home in many classic whiskey-based cocktails, like a Manhattan, mint julep, or the best Old-Fashioned you’ve ever had. The robust flavor of this bourbon holds up well when mixed with other ingredients in a cocktail, so you can still actually taste the alcohol instead of it being totally overpowered.
Keep in mind that this bourbon is 101-proof, meaning it is 50.5% alcohol-by-volume. It’s strong, but not so pungent that your next deep exhale will be flammable. However, it is good to keep the higher ABV in mind when consuming it. Wild Turkey 101 is the perfect bourbon for folks who still want to enjoy a quality drink on a budget, plus its versatility make it a great choice for both straight whiskey drinkers and cocktail lovers.
