Overview
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a bold, barrel-proof Kentucky bourbon that showcases Wild Turkey’s robust house style at full intensity.
Bottled at barrel strength without dilution, Rare Breed is a blend of bourbons aged between 6 and 12 years, delivering a powerful yet surprisingly balanced whiskey. It’s often regarded as one of the best value cask-strength bourbons available, offering depth, richness, and authenticity without excessive pricing.
At Whiskey Club, we see Wild Turkey Rare Breed as a serious bourbon for flavour-driven drinkers — unapologetic, full-bodied, and rewarding.
Distillery & Style
- Distillery: Wild Turkey Distillery
- Region: Kentucky, USA
- Style: Barrel-proof straight bourbon whiskey
- Age: Blend of 6–12 year old bourbons
- ABV: 58.4% (varies slightly by batch)
- Mash Bill: High rye bourbon mash (75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley)
- Cask Type: New charred American oak barrels
Wild Turkey is known for its high-rye mash bill and deep barrel char, both of which contribute to Rare Breed’s bold and spicy character.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Rich and intense, with aromas of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. Notes of orange peel, honey, and baking spices emerge alongside a warming alcohol presence.
Palate
Full-bodied and powerful. Flavours of caramelised sugar, dark toffee, and vanilla lead, followed by bold oak, cinnamon, clove, and a touch of black pepper. Despite the high strength, the palate remains well balanced and rounded.
Finish
Long, warming, and spicy, with lingering notes of oak, sweet vanilla, and rye spice. The heat builds gradually and fades slowly.
How to Drink It
Wild Turkey Rare Breed benefits greatly from a little patience.
Recommended serves:
- Neat (for experienced drinkers)
- With a few drops of water to open up sweetness and tame the alcohol
Ice is not recommended, as it can mute the bourbon’s complexity.
Is Wild Turkey Rare Breed Good for Beginners?
Generally, no — Rare Breed is not a beginner bourbon.
It is:
- High in alcohol strength
- Bold and spicy
- Intense in flavour
However, for drinkers who already enjoy bourbon and want to explore barrel-proof expressions, Rare Breed is an excellent next step.
Value for Money
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is widely considered one of the best value barrel-proof bourbons on the market.
Compared to many cask-strength releases, it delivers exceptional depth, maturity, and balance at a relatively accessible price point.
Final Verdict
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a bold, uncompromising bourbon that rewards those who enjoy intensity and depth.
Its rich sweetness, spicy backbone, and full-strength presentation make it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts and a benchmark for barrel-proof American whiskey.
Whiskey Club rating: 4.5 out of 5
Where to Buy
Available from trusted UK retailers.
Buy from our trusted partner.
18+ only. Please drink responsibly.
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