Wild Turkey 101 8 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey
Wild Turkey 101 8 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey is the limited-edition tribute to Master Distiller Jimmy Russell's 70th anniversary with Wild Turkey — an 8-year-old, 101-proof bourbon from stocks he hand-selected himself — and it is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
Jimmy Russell joined Wild Turkey in 1954, making him the longest-tenured spirits master distiller in the world. For his 70th anniversary, the distillery released this special 101-proof bourbon: an 8-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon blended with select 8-to-9-year-old whiskeys from a few of Jimmy's favorite rickhouses in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The extra years over standard Wild Turkey 101 add maturity, depth and a more rounded profile.
Tasting notes (official, Wild Turkey): rich aromas of oak, honey, cinnamon and tobacco on the nose; sweet cream, butterscotch and black tea on the palate transitioning to bitter chocolate, dark cherry and burnt sugar; a warm, lingering finish of caramel, dark cherry, oak and bittersweet chocolate.
Why buy the 8 Year 101? Because age-stated Wild Turkey at this level is a collector favorite, and this anniversary bottling bridges classic 101 and Rare Breed in a single pour. Explore the bourbon whiskey collection, the Wild Turkey brand collection, and all whisky.
Serving note: best neat or over ice — the 8 years of age rewards slow sipping.
What is the ABV? 101 proof (50.5% ABV), 750mL.
Who is Jimmy Russell? Wild Turkey's legendary master distiller since 1954 — the longest-tenured master distiller in the spirits world, honored here on his 70th anniversary.
How is this different from regular Wild Turkey 101? It carries a full 8-year age statement plus select 8–9-year-old stocks from Jimmy's favorite rickhouses — richer, rounder and more mature than standard 101.
Is this a limited release? Yes — a commemorative limited edition.