Wild Turkey (bourbon)

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Typical bottle of Wild Turkey

Wild Turkey (also known as the "dirty bird") is a line of Kentucky bourbon whiskey distilled and bottled by the Austin, Nichols division of Pernod Ricard, an international beverage corporation. Wild Turkey is one of the most popular bourbons in the United States. Wild Turkey stands out from other lower-priced whiskeys in that it uses a cork lid instead of a plastic screw top.

Wild Turkey bourbon, known to aficionados as “The Kickin’ Chicken” due to the fact that its most common variety is 101 proof as compared to the standard 80 proof for bourbons, is marketed as a collection of premium products. Its label carries a vividly printed, seemingly engraved illustration of its namesake. In the USA, five varieties of the bourbon are generally available: 80 proof, 101 proof, the Rare Breed (a blend of 6, 8 and 12-year-old stocks) at 108.2 barrel proof, and the Kentucky Spirit, a single barrel version at 101 proof. Also available is the 10 Year Old, Russell's Reserve, named after the Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, out in a new bottle that has been changed to 90 proof. An 8-year-old 101 proof is available in some countries, and a 12-year-old 101 proof and a 106 proof blend of different age bourbons are available through special outlets. In addition, the Wild Turkey trademark is used on a rye whiskey and a honey liqueur. The 80 and 101 proof products are an inexpensive yet high quality product. One reviewer from Whisky Magazine, proclaimed that Wild Turkey 101 is, "A Clint Eastwood of whiskeys." It also earned an 'Editor's Choice' award from the same publication.^[1]

The Wild Turkey distillery is on the American Whiskey Trail.

It was also a known favorite of gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson, and he alluded to instances of drinking it several times in his writings.^{[citation needed]}