Wild Turkey Rare Breed
Since 1991, the Rare Breed has been part of the core range of the Wild Turkey distillery. The Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a blend of 6, 8 and 12 years whiskeys, and gets bottled uncut.The mashbill contains 75% corn, 13% rye and 12% malted barley - which leads us to expect a sweetish, slightly spicy whiskey. Like all bourbons, the Wild Turkey must also mature in a new, freshly burned out Virgin Oak barrel. The barrel was burned out to Char 4 level, also called Alligator Char. Char 4 is the highest char level.
Tasting Notes
Nose
As usual for a bourbon, the Rare Breed opens with a slight smell of solvents which fades quickly. This is followed by a multi-layered aroma explosion of popcorn, blackberries, fruity cherry, caramel, sugar syrup (maple syrup), and a good portion of oak. Very well woven and integrated variety of flavors overwhelms at the first moment. At the second nosing after the first sip, additional citrus notes, black tea and even more intense caramel are perceptible.
Palate
Whoa. We've rarely experienced such sweet stickiness and chewy viscosity in a whiskey and also whiskey. Once the taste buds get used to the sweetness, rye and oak spice make the second impact. The third, very dry round is characterized by leather, tobacco and dried tangerine.
Finish
The finish is long, warming, dry and chewy - in a positive sense.
Thoughts
Marcel 83/100
This Rare Breed shows just how much fun a bourbon with over 58% alcohol can be without being harsh – sweet, viscous, and packed with plenty of character. If you enjoy intense aromas and a warming viscosity, you’ll find a genuine drinking pleasure here, though it might be a challenge for bourbon newcomers.
Sascha 89/100
The Wild Turkey Rare Breed impresses with its complex aroma profile and a remarkable balance between sweet vanilla, spicy rye, and robust oak. Its thick, syrupy texture and long, dry-warming finish make it a technically very well-crafted barrel proof bourbon that appeals to experienced connoisseurs.
Value for Money: Excellent
💸 This whisky offers an outstanding value for money and is our value pick.
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Why is Wild Turkey Rare Breed bottled without dilution?
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is bottled at barrel proof, meaning it comes straight from the barrel without any dilution. This preserves the full flavor and original alcohol strength of 58.4%, allowing for a more intense and authentic bourbon experience.
What role does the Char 4 level of barrel charring play in the flavor?
The Char 4 level, also known as Alligator Char, is the deepest charring of a virgin oak barrel. It creates a deeply caramelized wood surface that imparts intense vanilla, caramel, and roasted notes to the bourbon while simultaneously emphasizing the oak spice.
How does the mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley influence the whisky’s flavor?
The high corn content provides the classic sweetness typical of bourbon, while the rye contributes a subtle spiciness and bite. The malted barley supports fermentation and adds additional malty notes. Together, they create a balanced profile with sweet, spicy, and fruity aromas.