Wild Turkey 8 Year 70th Anniversary
In-Depth Review
It’s hard to believe that Jimmy Russell has been working at Wild Turkey for 70 years. In an age where the typical person stays at a job for an average of only 4 years, Jimmy has stayed for more than 17x longer – becoming an unquestionable fixture in at the distillery in Lawrenceburg and a true ambassador for bourbon around the world. Starting out by sweeping floors, Jimmy rose all the way to Master Distiller in the 1960s. Responsible for the creation of expressions like Wild Turkey 101, Rare Breed, Kentucky Spirit, and more, Jimmy is the man responsible for building Wild Turkey into what it is today.
To help celebrate Jimmy’s 70th anniversary at the company, Wild Turkey has released a new limited edition take on their flagship Wild Turkey 101. Taking 8 and 9 year barrels from Jimmy’s favorite locations, Wild Turkey 8 Year 70th Anniversary expression is crafted to be “a true tribute to Jimmy’s legacy”. This release differs from typical Wild Turkey 101 by adding an 8-year age statement, a unique bottle design, and a $50 MSRP. Rumor has it there is supposed to be a lot of bottles released, and I found this bottle at my local Total Wine for just about MSRP. So, let’s dive in and see if this is a fitting tribute to the legend himself!
Age: 8 Years (8-9 year old barrels)
ABV: 50.5%
Cask: New oak
MSRP: $50.00
Distillery Name: Wild Turkey
Review Date: 11/3/2024
Color: Golden Caramel
Nose: The nose starts off with caramel, butterscotch, and crème brulee. It’s filled with an earthy spice on top of waves of warm Christmas cake sweetness and clean vanilla bean. As it settles, more baking spices jump from the glass and mingle with pie crust and baked pastry. This is classic Wild Turkey through and through but with more depth, more spice, and more warmth on the nose than regular 101.
Palate: First impression: this palate is remarkably well-balanced. It’s full of caramelized sugar, warm coffee cake, baked pastry, and an oaky backbone that you just don’t find in normal Wild Turkey 101. After sipping on it, more honeycomb, orange zest, and milk chocolate jump to the forefront. It has a buttery texture that’s thick and vicious, with a gentle, well-balanced heat.
Finish: Medium length finish with a comforting sweetness that gently moves from fresh cut apple slices to charred oak. Only the slightest hint of leather and tobacco leaf. It’s a great ending to a fantastic pour.
Final Thoughts: Let’s skip to the important bit: if you have the chance to buy Wild Turkey’s 8 Year 70 Anniversary – do it. Don’t hesitate. This bottle is truly one of the year’s best from Wild Turkey and punches way above what its price and availability would lead you to believe. People would have paid more for this – but I’m glad we didn’t have to. It’s not just a step above standard 101 – it’s in another league. Wild Turkey’s 8 Year 70th Anniversary is a reminder of what great bourbon should be – balanced, approachable, deep flavors, all at an attractive price point. The perfect tribute to the man that has defined the brand. Here’s to you Jimmy!
Score: 93
