Wild Turkey 81 Bourbon

Wild Turkey has distilled in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky since the 1940s, and it built its name on big, high-proof bourbon. The 81 is the friendlier one — bottled at 81 proof (40.5%), it's the everyday, mix-it-or-sip-it Turkey.

The recipe is the same high-rye mash bill the distillery is known for, aged in deeply charred new American oak. Master Distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell have overseen the style for decades, and even at the lower strength it keeps that trademark spicy backbone.

Expect vanilla and caramel on the nose, with a little orange and toasted oak. The palate is soft and rounded — more vanilla, brown sugar, a touch of rye pepper and a light char. At 40.5% it's easy-going, the finish medium and gently spiced.

A proper workhorse bourbon: fine neat, better still in a cocktail.

How to Serve

Over ice, or in an Old Fashioned or whiskey sour where its spice cuts through nicely. Neat works too if you want it simple.

Where to Drink It

The American Bar at The Savoy for a classic sour. Black Rock in Shoreditch. Boisdale of Belgravia for a laid-back evening.

Food Pairings

Burgers, ribs, anything off the grill. Keep it American with smoked brisket or a hunk of sharp cheddar.