Wild Turkey Master's Keep Bottled in Bond 17 Year

First impression I’m a Turkey fan and wanted this bottle but after the early, glowing online reviews, I was afraid the tater crew would be in high gear to swipe these up. Fate being what it is, I had to fill up my car at Costco this morning, saw a mostly empty parking lot and headed in to pick up a few items I needed before the daily onslaught my local store endures. As I was walking up to the entrance I saw someone walking out with a bottle, asked him if they had some in and lucky me, it was on the shelf for $139.99. Started my night with a small taste of 101 to set my palate. On to the main event: Nose: Cherries, caramel, slight vanilla. The cherry theme seems to be consistent across the reviews and I was surprised just how forward this was to me. Palate: Again, the cherry comes through, unmistakable. Some of your usual caramels, vanilla and surprisingly light oak for this age. Mouthfeel a little thin for my preference. The finish for me was a little short, light on the actual oak, dry and tannic. I had to pull out a Russell’s pick from K&L to compare after tasting this. I had been meaning to open this bottle - no time like the present! The pick is Camp Nelson, to be specific it is the #18-439, Camp Nelson A, Floor 4. 55% ABV. This has more of the usual Turkey taste, only more so. Hint of that rye, nice caramel, and thick, viscous mouthfeel. Does the extra 10 proof do that much? Added a little water to make a fair fight but to me at least the pick is just “more.” More classic turkey, more thickness, more finish with less tannin. These picks sell out for good reason. Final, Initial Neck Pour Thoughts: Let me start by admitting I’m looking forward to letting this open up. The 17 year BiB is a unique product and if you are a Turkey fan I’m sure you’ll want it. Value wise I lucked out, $139.99 is probably about as inexpensive as you’ll find this. Is it worth it? If you’re a Wild Turkey collector unfortunately you’re stuck, it is a must have because of it’s uniqueness. Not a die hard Turkey fan? Then I’d say don’t chase it. Keep your sights on RR picks. Even in my case we’re talking 139 vs. 64.99 for the pick. Drive the BiB price to the usual 169-179 then I say it would be a pass, get a RR pick instead. I’ll revisit and update. Revisit 8/20/22 - As promised this really opened up after a month or so. It has risen to the special pour category (although pretty much there based on price alone). This is one to bring out to show what Wild Turkey is capable of. Raising the score 1/2 a point, 4.25.

Nose is deep and rich. Cherries and oak. Palate is more oak, less cherries and some vanilla. Tobacco, like a rich cigar. Not much heat reflecting the BiB proof. You can taste the age.

Funky and dusty smell and upfront taste with oak. Transforms to vanilla/cherry. Very smooth pour with bitter oak aftertaste but price makes me shy away.

One of the better modern releases I’ve had. Outstanding mouthfeel.

Everything amazing in life

Funk, elegance, complex. A winding road of flavor. Perfect.