First Impressions
Wild Turkey Rare Breed — launched in 1991 by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, known as 'the Buddha of Bourbon.' Russell joined Wild Turkey in 1954 and is now in his 70th year at the distillery — the longest-tenured active master distiller in the world. Inspired by Booker Noe's barrel-proof Knob Creek concept, Russell created Rare Breed as one of the earliest barrel-proof bourbons.
The Barrel Proof Marriage
A marriage of 6, 8, and 12 year old bourbons at 116.8 proof (58.4% ABV). No water added. The distillery traces back to Austin, Nichols & Co., a New York grocery firm that began distributing bourbon under the Wild Turkey name in the 1940s. Standard mashbill: 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley.
Tasting
Big nose of toasted caramel, dark oak, and cinnamon. Honey and vanilla palate with baking spices and black pepper — rich and full without excessive heat despite the proof. The finish is long and warm with lingering caramel and oak tannins. The barrel proof delivers intensity that water-reduced bourbons cannot match.
The Verdict
Wild Turkey Rare Breed earns an 8 — one of the best values in barrel-proof bourbon, from the longest-tenured master distiller in the world. At £42 and 58.4%, this punches far above its price point. Jimmy Russell's legacy in a bottle. If you want to understand why barrel proof matters, start here.
