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    HomeTasting Notes7 Wild Turkey Bottles That Prove It’s America’s Most Underrated Bourbon

    7 Wild Turkey Bottles That Prove It’s America’s Most Underrated Bourbon

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    7 Wild Turkey Bottles That Prove It’s America’s Most Underrated Bourbon
    Credit: Wild Turkey

    Wild Turkey is a brand close to my heart. When I sat down to write this, I struggled to decide which bottles to list and in what order. So instead, I have compiled a list of greatest hits from the folks over at Wild Turkey.

    A combination of classic releases that we all love, as well as some rarities from the last few years of special and sought-after bottles.

    Wild Turkey Master’s Keep, varying ABVs, $200+

    Wild Turkey concluded the Master’s Keep series this year with Beacon. Credit: Wild Turkey

    The Wild Turkey Master’s Keep series, launched in 2015 by Master Distiller Eddie Russell, is a limited edition, high-end collection showcasing the distillery’s depth, craftsmanship, and willingness to experiment.

    Spanning a decade of releases through 2025, the series features bourbons from 10 to 17 years, often bottled at higher proofs, and includes creative finishes in rum or sherry casks, as well as rye blends. Each edition highlights Wild Turkey’s access to mature stock, its bold flavor profile, and the family-driven heritage that anchors the brand.

    Wild Turkey Diamond Anniversary, 45.5%, RRP $125

    A limited‑edition expression celebrating master distiller Jimmy Russell’s 60 years at Wild Turkey. This one is blended of 13‑16 year barrels and bottled at 91 proof (45.5% ABV).

    This release underscores that even the “celebration” bourbons from Wild Turkey can deliver subtlety, maturity, and elegance, qualities that many don’t associate with the brand, given its “big flavour for value” reputation.

    It is worth noting that whilst this originally retailed for $125, it is now difficult to find for under $500.

    Wild Turkey Forgiven, 45.5%, $50

    This is a blend of bourbon and rye whiskies (not a straight bourbon), though less “pure bourbon” it shows Wild Turkey’s ability to experiment rhythmically and deliver flavour complexity while still bearing the brand’s hallmarks of spice, vanilla, and balance.

    Again, this is now selling for far above its original RRP. So, if you can find it at a decent price, props to you.

    Wild Turkey Longbranch, 43%, $38

    Longbranch was born from a collaboration with Oscar-winning actor, Matthew McConaughey. Credit: Wild Turkey

    What makes this interesting is the collaboration (with Matthew McConaughey) and the charcoal filtration via oak & Texas mesquite, offering a smoother, approachable profile while still retaining character.

    It shows that Wild Turkey isn’t just “big, bold proof” but also mindful of versatility and sipping quality.

    Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit (Single Barrel), 50.5%, $55

    The fact that it’s a single barrel means each bottle has its own uniqueness. This bottle highlights that even Wild Turkey’s “premium” side maintains the core character rather than chasing fad specs.

    One thing I’ve always been jealous of with the US market is the availability of Wild Turkey single barrel stocks when compared to the UK. It’s something we’re screaming out for over here, and would have loved to see this sat on shelves.

    Wild Turkey Rare Breed, 58.4%+, $55

    This barrel proof example of Wild Turkey is one of the best expressions of high-strength whisky available on the planet. Sourcing stocks from between 6, 8, and 12-year-old casks, it’s a step up in terms of those bombastic, flavour-forward profiles that the distillery has become famous for.

    Not only does it deliver in terms of style and flavour, it’s also such incredible value across the world regarding its recommended sales price.

    Wild Turkey 101 Proof, 50.5%, $20

    This is the flagship expression and perhaps the best entry point to understand what Wild Turkey stands for: a bold, high‑rye bourbon matured longer than required, offering rich vanilla, caramel, orange peel, and toasted oak.

    Because of its consistent quality and value, it’s often overlooked by whiskey collectors focused on hype, but for brewing real bourbon character, it arguably punches above its price.

    Conclusion

    Wild Turkey occupies a unique space in the bourbon world, blending bold character with remarkable versatility. It is a brand that can satisfy both newcomers seeking approachable, flavorful whiskey and seasoned enthusiasts chasing depth, complexity, and high-proof intensity. Its mastery of aging, high-rye mash bills, and barrel management allows it to produce expressions that range from smooth and subtle to rich and fiery, all while maintaining a distinct Kentucky personality.

    Beyond flavor, Wild Turkey demonstrates a rare balance of tradition and innovation, honoring its storied heritage while embracing experimentation and premium craftsmanship. In a landscape often dominated by trend-driven hype, Wild Turkey quietly proves that true quality does not need to shout, making it one of the most reliable, underrated, and multifaceted distilleries in the bourbon world.

    Read the full article at 7 Wild Turkey Bottles That Prove It’s America’s Most Underrated Bourbon

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