What Proof is Wild Turkey Bourbon? A Look at This Iconic Brand’s Range of Offerings

Wild Turkey is one of the most iconic and beloved bourbon brands in the world. With a history stretching back over 75 years, Wild Turkey has built a reputation for quality, affordability, and consistency But one question bourbon drinkers often have is – what proof options are available across Wild Turkey’s range of offerings? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the various Wild Turkey bourbon expressions and the proofs they are bottled at

Wild Turkey 101 – The Flagship Bourbon

The core Wild Turkey bourbon expression is Wild Turkey 101 bourbon. This 101 proof (50.5% ABV) bourbon acts as the flagship product for the brand. It features Wild Turkey’s standard mashbill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley Aged for around 6-8 years, Wild Turkey 101 provides a balance of sweet and spicy flavors. With its high rye content, Wild Turkey 101 brings a spicy kick that sets it apart from many other popular bourbons in its price range

Wild Turkey 101 first launched in 1954, when the global bourbon market was very different At that time, most bourbons clocked in around 80-86 proof. So Wild Turkey 101’s relatively higher 101 proof helped it stand out In the decades since, 101 proof has become more common among bourbons. But Wild Turkey still produces over 13 million bottles of 101 each year, making it one of the highest volume 101 proof bourbons. With an affordable price point usually between $25-$30, 101 makes for a perfect everyday drinking bourbon.

Wild Turkey 81 – The Lower Proof Option

In recent years, Wild Turkey introduced an 81 proof (40.5% ABV) expression as a lower proof option. Made from the same mashbill and aged for a similar 4-8 years, Wild Turkey 81 provides a milder and more approachable version of the 101. It tones down the rye spice kick, while keeping the core sweet and oaky Wild Turkey flavor profile.

Bottled at 81 proof, Wild Turkey 81 contains 20% less alcohol than the 101 proof version. As a result, it provides a lighter and easier drinking experience. For bourbon drinkers who find high proof whiskies to be too aggressive neat, or want to use a lower proof whiskey for cocktails, Wild Turkey 81 can be an excellent choice. It usually costs around $5 less than the 101, with a typical retail price of $20. So budget-focused drinkers can save a bit by opting for the 81 over the more popular 101 bottling.

Rare Breed – Barrel Proof Offering

On the other end of the spectrum, Wild Turkey’s Rare Breed bourbon brings the proof up into cask strength territory. Rare Breed is a barrel proof blend of 6, 8, and 12 year old bourbons. That blend of ages provides depth and complexity. And the barrel proof, which ranges from 112-116 depending on the batch, brings bold flavors along with the higher alcohol kick.

The “rare” in Rare Breed refers to the older 12 year old bourbons used in the blend. Given Wild Turkey’s preference for a 6-8 year aging range, these older bourbons are not as common in the warehouses. But by incorporating a portion of these more mature bourbons, Rare Breed gains further complexity. With MSRPs around $55, Rare Breed brings a full flavored cask strength experience at a reasonable price point. For bourbon enthusiasts who like bold, high proof pours, it makes an excellent pick.

Kentucky Spirit – A Single Barrel Expression

Rounding out Wild Turkey’s core range is Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel bourbon. As a single barrel product, Kentucky Spirit carries no official age statement. But it is likely aged for around 8-10 years. Bottled at 101 proof, Kentucky Spirit represents a more refined and nuanced expression of Wild Turkey’s 101 proof bourbon.

Due to its single barrel nature, each batch of Kentucky Spirit will vary somewhat. But in general it provides deeper and richer flavors compared to the standard 101 proof. With a typical retail price of $50-60, Kentucky Spirit sits at the top end of Wild Turkey’s price range. For drinkers who love Wild Turkey’s signature flavor and want to experience a more complex and refined version, Kentucky Spirit is an excellent option.

Limited Editions & Other Offerings

In addition to the core lineup, Wild Turkey occasionally releases limited edition and special bottlings. These help showcase the distillery’s capabilities through unique mashbills, ages, and cask finishes. One example is Wild Turkey Master’s Keep, an annual limited release series exploring different concepts each year. While delicious, these special editions do come at a higher price point.

Finding Your Preferred Wild Turkey Proof

With multiple proofs across the lineup, Wild Turkey offers options suitable for drinkers with varying flavor preferences. Those who like easy drinking, standard proof bourbon can opt for Wild Turkey 101 or 81. For an amped up cask strength experience, Rare Breed hits the spot. And Kentucky Spirit provides a refined single barrel offering. By getting to know the different Wild Turkey expressions and their proofs, you’re sure to find one that suits your palate. With quality bourbon available at a range of proofs, Wild Turkey has cemented itself as an iconic and versatile American whiskey brand.