Austin Nichols Distilling Company
Wild Turkey 8-year 101 1992 750ml (label damage)
Experience a revered piece of bourbon history with the Wild Turkey 1992, an 8-year-old, 101-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This vintage expression, crafted by Austin Nichols, offers a rich tapestry of classic Wild Turkey character, showcasing exceptional depth and a beautifully integrated balance of sweetness, spice, and oak.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A captivating and complex nose, immediately announcing its age and quality. Dominant notes of rich vanilla and deeply caramelized sugar intermingle with dried dark fruits – think plums and figs – and a pleasant undercurrent of worn leather and old oak. A hint of baking spices, particularly cinnamon and nutmeg, emerges, alongside a faint whisper of tobacco leaf and a characteristic Wild Turkey earthiness.
Palate: The palate is full-bodied and impeccably balanced, delivering on the promise of the nose. A robust wave of sweet caramel, butterscotch, and spicy rye bread washes over the tongue. This is quickly followed by chewy toffee, roasted nuts, and a delightful interplay of dark chocolate and espresso. The 101 proof is present but remarkably well-integrated, providing a satisfying warmth without being overwhelming, allowing the intricate layers of fruit, spice, and oak to shine through.
Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally satisfying. The finish lingers with echoes of sweet oak, pipe tobacco, and a gentle, fading spice. Undertones of dried cherry and a touch of roasted bitterness add complexity, leaving a pleasant, mouth-coating oiliness and a desire for another sip.
About the Distillery
Austin Nichols Distilling Company, now known as Wild Turkey, boasts a rich history steeped in traditional bourbon making. Founded by the Ripy brothers in the mid-19th century, the distillery has a long-standing commitment to high-rye mash bills and a distinctive approach to aging, which has cultivated a loyal following for its bold and flavorful expressions.