Wild Turkey 12 Year Distiller’s Reserve is a rare, full-bodied expression that reflects the deep tradition and bold character of the Wild Turkey legacy. Crafted with the brand’s classic mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, this bourbon is aged for a full 12 years in heavily charred American oak barrels. Bottled at 101 proof, it offers an exceptional balance of maturity, spice, and signature Wild Turkey strength.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep amber with copper reflections
Nose: Caramelized sugar, vanilla bean, aged oak, red berries, and soft leather
Palate: Dark chocolate, toasted cinnamon, candied orange peel, maple, and rich oak spice
Finish: Long and warming with lingering notes of charred oak, baking spice, and citrus zest
What Makes It Special
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Aged 12 Full Years: Delivers enhanced depth, structure, and complexity
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Bold 101 Proof: Higher strength allows deeper flavor without overpowering heat
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Traditional Mash Bill: Classic Wild Turkey grain recipe with high corn and balanced rye
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Crafted by Russell Legacy: From the same family of master distillers behind decades of excellence
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Rare International Release: Limited availability makes it a prized find for bourbon enthusiasts
How to Enjoy
Savor neat or with a few drops of water to open up the deep complexity. Excellent in bold cocktails like a high-proof Manhattan or Whiskey Sour, where it maintains its presence against other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the ABV and proof?
It’s bottled at 101 proof, equivalent to 50.5% ABV.
2. What grains are used in the mash bill?
The mash bill includes 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley.
3. How long is it aged?
Wild Turkey 12 Year Distiller’s Reserve is aged for a full 12 years.
4. Is this available in the U.S.?
It’s primarily released in international markets but can occasionally be found through specialty retailers.
5. What sets it apart from Wild Turkey 101?
This expression is aged significantly longer, delivering deeper oak character and a richer, more refined finish.
Brett Colley –
Great bottle!
Hopefully WT will sell these domestically!
Wade –
Worth it
J.H. –
Great bottle
Gerard Carlson –
One of the best wild turkey products I’ve tried.
Got a chance to try a friends and boy I went right out and ordered two bottles. Excellent sip. Don’t know why it’s export only. Fast shipping got it in three days would highly recommend.
Mary Condy –
Wild Turkey 12 Year Distiller’s Reserve Straight Bourbon 700mL
Jonathan Vancoille –
DO NOT TRUST THE BARREL TAP!!!
This review is not about Wild Turkey 12 Year, but about The Barrel Tap, as unfortunately I have not been able to taste it. I ordered this on December 3 along with 2 other bottles for a total of $366.56. I also bought the “Shipping Protection” for $20.21. UPS claimed to deliver, but had no proof of delivery, no signature as required by law, nothing but a claim to have dropped off at “Front Door”. I reported this to The Barrel Tap within an hour of the supposed delivery. The Barrel Tap replied that they were contacting UPS and would let me know. I’ve attempted to follow up with The Barrel Tap and they have ignored all communication for over a week. LOOK FOR ANOTHER SELLER AND DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THE SHIPPING PROTECTION!
CDavid Cobbustomer –
Wild Turkey 12 year
Awesome bourbon,will buy again.Also A+ for your delivery and handling.
J.H. –
Great bottle
Lamar Glenn –
Wild Turkey 12
This is a phenomenal drinker at a great price!
George Byram –
Smooth
Great Bourbon! Loved it
Mark –
One of my favorites.
Jason Jones –
This is what they are trying to do!
I am a Wild Turkey fan! And this release is exactly what the Russell boys are trying to make. Smack yo mama good! Barrel Tap sent my order out insane fast and with zero problems. They have my buisness!