Wild Turkey 101 8 Year - 1988

Wild Turkey 101 8-Year Bourbon, exclusively released in Japan, represents a mature and sophisticated variant of the widely recognized Wild Turkey 101 available in the United States. This 8-year age-stated bourbon introduces a nuanced and refined profile, offering a distinguished tasting experience for aficionados and casual drinkers alike. Tasting Profile: Nose: The aromatic profile presents a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes, characterized by prominent oak, caramel, nuts, and baking spices. A distinctive citronella candle-like note introduces a subtle blend of citrus and floral elements. Palate: The palate delivers a balanced sip, introducing spice at the forefront, followed by oak and fruit nuances. Fruit notes, reminiscent of plum and black cherries, are evident, complemented by a subtle vanilla undertone. The complexity and refinement are enhanced by the 8-year aging process, presenting a profile that is roasty, oaky, and spice-forward, with a subtle oaky nuance. Finish: The finish is characterized by sweet, spicy, and slightly nutty notes, with a lingering presence of fruit leathers and a pronounced oak note. It concludes with toasted caramel, brown sugar, savory citrus, butterscotch, and subtle hints of cola and white pepper, providing a classic and satisfying end. When compared to other Wild Turkey offerings, the 8-year variant of Wild Turkey 101 demonstrates a notable increase in complexity and refinement. While maintaining the signature boldness synonymous with Wild Turkey, this expression introduces it with a well-articulated Kentucky grace. Although it may not encapsulate the rich oak, medicinal cherry, and sweet leather of the 12-year export, the toffee, caramel, and savory citrus notes of the 8-year version are sufficiently compelling to captivate the palate.