Austin Nichols
Wild Turkey 8/101 1993 - 101 Proof
Experience a revered piece of Wild Turkey history with this 1993 vintage 8-year-old, 101 proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon. A perfect example of the distillery's iconic, robust character, this expression delivers unparalleled depth and complexity, showcasing the golden era of Wild Turkey distilling. Savor its rich flavors and enduring legacy in every exceptional sip.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A profound and inviting nose opens with classic Wild Turkey notes of caramel, vanilla bean, and rich toasted oak. Deeper investigation reveals hints of dried cherry, candied orange peel, and a touch of baking spice – cinnamon and nutmeg – underpinned by a pleasant leathery earthiness and a faint whisper of pipe tobacco.
Palate: The palate is remarkably full-bodied and robust, delivering a delightful warmth without harshness. It immediately expresses dark caramel and butterscotch, quickly followed by a medley of dried fruits – fig, raisin, and apricot. The oak presence is significant but beautifully integrated, manifesting as sweet cedar and well-seasoned lumber. A mid-palate spice surge includes black pepper, clove, and a subtle smokiness. There's a lingering sweetness of dark chocolate and roasted nuts.
Finish: A long, satisfying, and evolving finish that coats the mouth. Sweet oak and vanilla persist, slowly giving way to a gentle, peppery warmth. Notes of tobacco leaf, leather, and a hint of dark roasted coffee emerge, creating a complex and memorable aftertaste. It leaves a pleasant, dry, and slightly tannic sensation, beckoning another sip.
About the Distillery
Austin Nichols, now famously known as Wild Turkey, has a storied history rooted in Kentucky bourbon production. The Ripy brothers first distilled on Wild Turkey Hill in the mid-19th century. Austin Nichols, a wholesale grocery company, began buying and bottling bourbon from various distilleries before purchasing the Ripy distillery in 1940. This acquisition solidified the Wild Turkey brand and its commitment to traditional, high-proof, age-stated bourbon under the legendary master distiller Jimmy Russell.