Wild Turkey bourbon is a popular and highly regarded type of American whiskey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore in great detail what exactly Wild Turkey bourbon is made from. By understanding its ingredients and the production process, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the unique flavor and character of this renowned spirit.
The History of Wild Turkey Bourbon
The story of Wild Turkey bourbon dates back to 1869 when the Ripy family built the first distillery in Tyrone, Kentucky.
After Prohibition, the Ripy family rebuilt the distillery and began producing bourbon again.
In 1940, the ‘Wild Turkey’ brand name was created when Thomas McCarthy, an executive at the distillery, took some of the bourbon on his wild turkey hunting trip and it became popular among his friends.
Over the years, the brand has changed hands several times, with Campari Group now owning the distillery and the Wild Turkey brand.
The Main Ingredients
1. Corn:
Corn is the primary ingredient in Wild Turkey bourbon, making up at least 51% of the mash bill. The distillery likely uses a high-quality dent corn, which is known for its rich flavor and high starch content. The starch in the corn is converted to sugar during the mashing process, which is then fermented to produce alcohol.
2. Rye:
Rye is another crucial ingredient, typically comprising around 10% to 15% of the mash bill. It adds a spicy and complex flavor to the bourbon, giving it a distinct kick and adding depth to the overall taste profile.
3. Wheat:
Sometimes, wheat is also used in the production of Wild Turkey bourbon, usually in amounts less than 10%. Wheat contributes a softness and smoothness to the whiskey, rounding out the flavors and making it more approachable on the palate.
4. Malted Barley:
Although used in smaller quantities compared to corn, rye, or wheat, malted barley is an essential component. It is used to convert the starches in the other grains into fermentable sugars during the mashing process. Additionally, it imparts a touch of complexity and a pleasant nuttiness to the flavor of the bourbon.
5. Water:
Water is a vital ingredient in the production of Wild Turkey bourbon. The distillery uses water from the Kentucky River, which is known for its purity and unique mineral content. This water is used in various stages of production, including mashing, fermenting, and diluting the final product.
The Production Process
1. Mashing:
The first step in making Wild Turkey bourbon is mashing. The grains (corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley) are combined with hot water in a large mash tun. This mixture is cooked at a specific temperature to break down the starches in the grains into sugars, creating a sweet liquid called wort. The temperature and duration of the mashing process are carefully controlled to ensure the proper conversion of starches to sugars.
2. Fermentation:
After mashing, the wort is transferred to fermentation tanks, and yeast is added. The yeast consumes the sugars in the wort and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide through the process of fermentation. This typically takes several days, during which the temperature and other environmental factors are monitored to ensure a successful fermentation. The result of this process is a liquid known as beer, which contains alcohol, flavor compounds, and other byproducts of fermentation.
3. Distillation:
The beer is then distilled in copper pot stills. Distillation is the process of separating the alcohol from the water and other impurities in the beer. The copper stills play an important role in this process, as they interact with the liquid and help to remove unwanted sulfur compounds, resulting in a smoother and more refined spirit. The distillation process is carried out in two or more stages to increase the purity and concentration of the alcohol. The initial distillate, known as the low wine, is further distilled to produce the final high-proof spirit, often referred to as white dog or moonshine.
4. Aging:
The white dog is transferred to oak barrels for aging. Wild Turkey bourbon is aged in American white oak barrels that have been charred on the inside, usually with a deep, no. 4 “alligator” char. The aging process is a crucial step in developing the flavor and color of the bourbon. As the whiskey sits in the barrel, it interacts with the oak, absorbing flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and spice from the wood. The charred layer of the barrel also imparts a rich, smoky flavor and a deep amber color to the bourbon. The length of the aging process can vary, with some expressions of Wild Turkey bourbon being aged for several years to achieve the desired flavor profile and complexity.
5. Blending and Bottling:
After aging, the bourbon is carefully blended by the master distiller to achieve a consistent flavor and quality across batches. Different barrels may have slightly different characteristics, and the blending process ensures that each bottle of Wild Turkey bourbon has the signature taste that consumers expect. Once blended, the bourbon is diluted with water to the desired proof and then bottled for distribution and sale.
Different Varieties of Wild Turkey Bourbon and Their Ingredient Differences
1. Wild Turkey 101:
This is one of the most popular expressions of Wild Turkey bourbon. It is bottled at 101 proof and has a bold and robust flavor. The mash bill likely contains the standard proportions of corn, rye, and malted barley, with the higher proof giving it a more intense and concentrated flavor profile. The aging process is carefully managed to achieve a balance between the rich, sweet flavors of the corn and the spicy, oaky notes from the barrel.
2. Wild Turkey 81:
As the name suggests, this bourbon is bottled at 81 proof. It has a slightly lighter and more approachable flavor compared to Wild Turkey 101. The mash bill may be adjusted slightly to achieve this lower proof and a smoother, more mellow taste. The aging process is also optimized to bring out the vanilla, caramel, and fruity notes, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less intense bourbon experience.
3. Wild Turkey Rare Breed:
This is a barrel-proof bourbon, meaning it is bottled at the natural proof straight from the barrel without significant dilution. It offers a more unfiltered and intense flavor experience, with a higher alcohol content that showcases the full range of flavors and aromas developed during the aging process. The mash bill for Rare Breed is likely similar to the other Wild Turkey expressions, but the lack of dilution allows for a more pronounced and complex flavor profile, including deeper oak, spice, and fruit flavors.
4. Russell’s Reserve:
Named after the master distiller Jimmy Russell, Russell’s Reserve comes in different expressions, such as the 6-year-old and 10-year-old single barrel bourbons. These bourbons are aged for longer periods, which results in a more refined and complex flavor. The mash bill may be similar to the core Wild Turkey bourbon, but the extended aging allows for greater interaction with the oak, resulting in enhanced flavors of vanilla, caramel, dried fruit, and a more pronounced oakiness. The single barrel selection also means that each bottle has its own unique flavor characteristics, as the bourbon is sourced from a single barrel rather than being blended from multiple barrels.
See Also: Why Bourbon is Good for You?
How to Appreciate the Flavor of Wild Turkey Bourbon
1. Sipping Neat:
One of the best ways to fully appreciate the flavor of Wild Turkey bourbon is to sip it neat, without any added mixers or ice. Pour a small amount of bourbon into a tulip-shaped glass and allow it to rest for a few minutes to let the flavors open up. Take small sips and let the bourbon coat your palate, noting the different flavor notes such as the sweetness of the corn, the spiciness of the rye, and the complexity added by the oak aging. Pay attention to the finish, which can be long and lingering, with flavors evolving and developing over time.
2. On the Rocks:
If you prefer a slightly diluted and chilled version, you can enjoy Wild Turkey bourbon on the rocks. Add a few ice cubes to a glass and pour the bourbon over them. The ice will slowly melt, diluting the bourbon slightly and cooling it down, which can mellow out the flavors and make them more accessible. This is a great option for those who find the neat bourbon a bit too strong or intense.
3. In Cocktails:
Wild Turkey bourbon also makes an excellent base for a variety of cocktails. Classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Whiskey Sour are all enhanced by the rich and complex flavor of Wild Turkey. In an Old Fashioned, the bourbon is combined with sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange peel, creating a sweet and spicy drink with a depth of flavor. The Manhattan, made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, showcases the smoothness and complexity of the bourbon, while the Whiskey Sour adds a tangy and refreshing twist with the addition of lemon juice and sugar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wild Turkey bourbon is made from a carefully selected combination of corn, rye, wheat, malted barley, and water, along with the artful application of the production process, including mashing, fermentation, distillation, aging, blending, and bottling. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the distinct flavor profile that has made Wild Turkey bourbon a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you prefer to sip it neat, on the rocks, or in a delicious cocktail, understanding what goes into making this bourbon can enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of this classic American spirit.
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