Distillery: Wild Turkey
Proof: 112.2
Age: NAS (Blend of 4, 6, & 8 Year Olds)
Mashbill: Undisclosed
BACKGROUND: Wild Turkey has always been a staple in the whiskey community and has only grown in the past few years. Distilled in Lawrenceburg, KY, Wild Turkey Rare Breed (cask strength) was originally released in 2010 and was an instant hit. Finally, 10 years later Wild Turkey released a Rare Breed Rye whiskey for the first time and we're so excited to be able to give you our thoughts.
NOSE: Within the first sniff you are immediately smacked in the face with wonderful scents of spice, fruit, and citrus. We found the spice and citrus really stood out the most. The nose is well balanced and bold and forms some incredibly rich caramel notes that make it unique and enjoyable. (22/25)
PALATE: As soon as the whiskey first hit our mouths we were greeted strong vanilla that was followed by citrus, marsh-mellow, and caramel notes that coated our mouth. As the whiskey sat on our tongue we started pulling strong oak and rye spice notes. The proof makes itself known throughout the palate on this whiskey. All the flavors work together on this whiskey and is incredibly smooth and delicious. (36/40)
FINISH: The finish on Rare Breed Rye is delicious by starting with hints of caramelized brown sugar that is then engulfed by rye spice, cracked pepper, citrus rind, and oak. (21/25)
VALUE: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye has an SRP of $59.99 which is great for a cask strength rye whiskey. (8/10)
Overall: 87/100
FINAL THOUGHTS: Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye is one of the best new whiskeys we've tasted this year. It is full of bold spices without being overpoweringly spicy. Wild Turkey makes some incredible whiskey and this is just another example of it. If you see this whiskey we highly recommend buying it whether you are a bourbon fan or rye whiskey fan, this is great for all whiskey drinkers.
Similar & Slightly Better Whiskey: Michter's 10 Year Rye Whiskey
Similar & Equal Whiskey: Willett Family Estate Cask Strength Rye Whiskey
Similar & Slightly Worse Whiskey: Wilderness Trail Cask Strength Rye Whiskey
Tell us what you think and give us some feedback!
Scoring Legend:
96-100: The perfect dram, juice of the gods
90-95: Near perfect, truly incredible whiskey
85-89: Amazing whiskey, will always try to keep a backup bottle of this
80-84: Very good, some minor flaws here or there
75-79: Good, quite enjoyable to drink, Will try and keep a bottle on the shelf
70-74: Solid, wouldn’t go out of my way to get this
60-69: Decent, would offer this up to non whiskey drinkers
50-59: Not my cup of tea
