Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon Whiskey
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Overall Value: 4.25/5
Distillery: Wild Turkey
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Campari Group
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 101
Age: NAS
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Color: Wheat
MSRP: $25 (2026)
The Barrel Bros’ Review
The nose on this Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon Whiskey opens light and bright with classic bourbon character. Red fruit stands out first—somewhere between cherry and strawberry candy—alongside soft vanilla and honey. There’s a pleasant oak presence that never gets too heavy, giving off that familiar Wild Turkey brand profile that longtime bourbon drinkers instantly recognize.
On the palate, the mouthfeel leans slightly thin but still manages to feel buttery. Sweet notes of honey and vanilla show up early, followed by darker cherry, light chocolate, and a youthful char. There’s a bit of smoke in the background, and while the flavors are fairly straightforward, it does a solid job hitting the core bourbon notes. The proof gives it some punch without overwhelming the sip.
The finish is where its budget roots show a bit. A noticeable proof bite appears, along with light oak and a faint alcohol tingle. It doesn’t linger long, and while it lacks complexity, nothing tastes unpleasant or out of place—just simple and direct.
There’s a reason Wild Turkey 101 has long been an entry-level favorite for bourbon fans. Whether this is the standard release or the 8 year expression found in some markets, it delivers dependable flavor at an approachable price. At its typical MSRP, it’s one of the best values on the shelf, and it becomes an even better pickup when found on Sale.
It may not compete with premium bottles in depth or finish, but it nails what it’s meant to be: an affordable, reliable bourbon that works just as well neat as it does in a cocktail. If you want a true representation of the Wild Turkey style without spending much, this bottle still earns its place on the bar.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
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Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 6.5/10
Value: 4.5/5
THE NOSE:
Red fruit and vanilla.
Reminded me of the creamy strawberry lifesavers. Although its probably more on the cherry side of red fruit.
There is a pleasant amount of oak on the nose as well. Really just the classic fruity bourbon profile!
THE TASTE:
The mouthfeel is on the thin side, but it’s still buttery.
I get a bit of a youthy char profile, but the fruitiness does remain.
It’s a bit more dark cherry, chocolate, char, and smoke. But really does a pretty great job hitting the bourbon notes.
THE FINISH:
This is where the cheaper bottle starts to show up. I get a pretty strong proof bite and a twinge of rubbing alcohol notes.
Light oak is certainly the main flavor profile here.
BUY OR PASS?
There is a reason why this is a lot of bourbon enthusiasts entry level bourbon, or go to well pour for their home bar. It encompasses the spirit of bourbon really well and it is at a fantastic price point.
The finish is not fantastic, but throw it in a mixer and it doesn’t matter. Although, I did enjoy sipping this straight too!
The Hunter Says
Score: 6.5/10
Value: 4/5
THE NOSE:
Light and bright, with a little red fruit and some honey.
There’s also a touch of oak, but it stays at a level that feels pleasant and mellow.
THE TASTE:
Light and sweet too. A bit of the honey and oak show up again, but everything is pretty muted.
It’s a classic bourbon profile—simple, easy, and nothing strange or harsh.
THE FINISH:
It doesn’t bring much to the table, and you can tell it’s a younger whiskey.
Still, nothing is off-putting, which makes it easy to sip.
BUY OR PASS?
All in all, I’m not a Wild Turkey superfan like some folks, but this might be as good as any of their bottles I’ve had. Sure, the higher-end releases add more depth, but if you want that signature Wild Turkey flavor at a budget price, this hits the mark.
It’s also my go-to mixer right now, and it fits that role perfectly.
