Wild Turkey 101 Rye Review

Wild Turkey 101 Rye is a rye whiskey from Kentucky. The name comes from the 101 proof which means 50,5% alcohol by volume level. Wild Turkey brand also has 81 proof version but for my experienced palate this 101 proof rye of course sounds better.

Aged in charred new oak barrels, 101 Rye has barely legal mash bill of 51% rye consistency. Wild Turkey’s rye whiskey is actually famous from the 1980’s. They were around before “rye renaissance” started in 2010’s.

They also sell rye whiskey under Russells Reserve brand, which is a pricier range.

Wild Turkey 101 Straight Rye Whiskey from Kentucky - Review and tasting notes

All-around greatness covered in rye

I really love this rye, it’s totally worth every penny around 40$ per liter. Bang for buck fresh, rich and powerful rye whiskey.

If you bump into this, grab one. And go straight for this 101 proof version! Be sure to let it breathe some air. I found that my bottle just kept getting better, the more it got oxidation.

Mash bill:

51% rye, 37% corn, and 12% malted barley

ABV: 50.5%

Colour: Golden amber

Nose: Fresh mint breeze. Spices and herbs.Ginger bread and fruity notes. Cinnamon and apples. Grapes combined with bitter dark rye bread. The rye notes grow stronger slowly.

Taste: Fresh minty rye, rich with tropical fruits. Mangos, green apples and oak. Juicy Fruit bubblegum.

Finish: Slightly dry. Thick toffee notes and dark rye bread. That rye bread changes into fruitcake late in the aftertaste, with chewy dark toffee coming back. Hints of ginger bread and nutmeg.

Balance: Great rich rye whisky. Offers a colorful balanced palate of tropical fruits mixed with some darker rye notes.