Wild Turkey
What it is
Wild Turkey is a well-known brand of bourbon whiskey that hails from the United States, particularly from Kentucky. It is recognized for its high proof and robust flavor profile, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. The brand is particularly noted for its commitment to quality and tradition in bourbon production, which is essential in crafting cocktails that require a strong and flavorful base spirit. Its distinctive taste adds depth to cocktails, making it a versatile ingredient in both classic and contemporary recipes.
Taste
Rich, Spicy, Sweet
How it is made
Wild Turkey is made primarily from corn, with a mash bill that typically consists of at least 51% corn, along with rye and malted barley. The whiskey undergoes fermentation, distillation, and aging in charred new oak barrels, which imparts its signature flavors and color. The aging process can vary, but Wild Turkey is known for its longer aging periods, contributing to its rich and complex profile.
History
The Wild Turkey brand was founded in 1940 by Thomas McCarthy, who was a distiller and a passionate bourbon enthusiast. The name 'Wild Turkey' originated from a wild turkey hunting trip that McCarthy took with friends, where he brought back a barrel of bourbon to share. Over the years, Wild Turkey has become synonymous with high-quality bourbon and has gained a loyal following among whiskey drinkers worldwide.
In cocktails
Bartenders often use Wild Turkey in cocktails that require a bold and flavorful whiskey component. It works exceptionally well in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, where its rich flavors can shine through. When serving, it can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail, and it pairs well with a variety of mixers, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Worth knowing
Wild Turkey is known for its high proof offerings, with some expressions reaching up to 101 proof, making it one of the stronger bourbons available.
This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.
Substitutes
- Buffalo Trace
- Evan Williams
- Bulleit Bourbon
Goes best with
Lemon juice (167) · Bitters (158) · Sugar syrup (157) · Other liqueur (76) · Fruit liqueur (61) · Sweet vermouth (61) · Herbal liqueur (43) · Triple sec (43) · Egg white (41) · Orange bitters (41)