Wild Turkey Rare Breed: A Barrel-Proof Bourbon for Bold Flavor Enthusiasts

Introduction

Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a barrel-proof bourbon that delivers an unfiltered, unapologetically bold drinking experience. Crafted by the iconic Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, Rare Breed combines tradition and innovation, offering bourbon lovers a true taste of its cask-strength origins. With a perfect balance of robust flavors and smooth drinkability, Rare Breed is a favorite for those who appreciate intensity without compromise.

The Legacy of Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Wild Turkey has been a cornerstone of bourbon craftsmanship for decades, and Rare Breed stands as one of its crowning achievements. Introduced in 1991, Rare Breed is a blend of bourbons aged between 6 to 12 years, selected by Master Distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell. Its barrel-proof nature reflects the raw, uncut essence of bourbon, showcasing the best of Wild Turkey’s high-rye mash bill and expert aging techniques.

What Makes Rare Breed Unique

Bottled at barrel proof—typically between 112.8 to 116.8 proof, depending on the batch—Rare Breed is uncut with water, preserving its robust flavors and natural character. Despite its high proof, it’s remarkably smooth, thanks to Wild Turkey’s low distillation proof and patient aging process in deeply charred American oak barrels. For those searching for high-proof bourbons with exceptional balance, Rare Breed is a standout choice.

Tasting Notes: Bold and Balanced

Wild Turkey Rare Breed delivers a dynamic and nuanced flavor profile:

• Nose: Aromas of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, accented by hints of orange zest, nutmeg, and honey.
• Palate: Full-bodied and rich, with flavors of toffee, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and warm spices, balanced by notes of dried fruit and charred wood.
• Finish: Long and warming, with lingering sweetness and a touch of spice.

Its combination of bold flavors and smooth texture makes it ideal for sipping neat, while its high proof lends itself beautifully to classic bourbon cocktails.

Packaging: Classic and Iconic

Rare Breed’s bottle reflects its heritage and authenticity. The robust glass design, paired with the timeless Wild Turkey label, underscores its connection to tradition while appealing to bourbon purists. It’s a bottle that stands out on any bar shelf.

The Craftsmanship Behind the Bourbon

Rare Breed is crafted from Wild Turkey’s signature Mash Bill #1, which features 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. The blend of 6-, 8-, and 12-year-old bourbons aged in heavily charred barrels gives it depth and complexity. Its barrel-proof bottling ensures the bourbon is as close to the cask as possible, offering an unadulterated drinking experience.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

The bold flavors of Wild Turkey Rare Breed make it a versatile companion for both food and cocktails:

• Savoury Pairings: Smoked ribs, grilled steak, or aged Gouda.
• Sweet Pairings: Pecan pie, caramelized bananas, or dark chocolate.

Serve it neat or over a large ice cube to mellow its intensity while retaining its complexity. For a classic cocktail, Rare Breed shines in an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, where its rich flavors take center stage.

Awards and Recognition

Wild Turkey Rare Breed has earned critical acclaim for its balance of power and drinkability. Frequently praised by bourbon enthusiasts and critics alike, it’s recognized as one of the best barrel-proof bourbons in its category.

A Gift for the Bold Bourbon Lover

Wild Turkey Rare Breed is an excellent gift for bourbon lovers who appreciate intensity and craftsmanship. Its high proof, complex flavors, and storied legacy make it a perfect choice for birthdays, holidays, or milestones. If you’re searching for the best barrel-proof bourbon for gifting, Rare Breed is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

How to Order Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Wild Turkey Rare Breed is widely available at specialty liquor stores and online retailers. For those wondering where to buy Wild Turkey Rare Breed bourbon, check premium bourbon outlets or trusted online platforms. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy one of the boldest and most iconic expressions in Wild Turkey’s lineup.

How do you make a blend of 6-, 8- and 12-year-old bourbons even better? By increasing the proof, giving the already rich and exceptional bourbon a bolder flavor. The new 116.8 Proof Wild Turkey® Rare Breed is barrel-proof, meaning it’s uncut, bottled directly from the barrels at the proof it reached in those barrels. We like it so much, we gave it more proof and a new label to highlight its bold yet smooth appeal.

Size: 750ml

Proof: 90 (45% ABV)