Wild Turkey is one of those iconic bourbons that is instantly recognizable, right up there with Jack Daniels and Jim Beam. The "high rye" mashbill is only 13% rye (75-13-12), but it tastes like a much higher percentage in my opinion. There is no age statement but many sources put it in the 6-8 year range. This whiskey puts the proof in the name, kind of in-your-face about the the fact that it's just a hair over 50% alcohol. It's an anomaly on the top shelf of the liquor store, sharing space with $40-60 bourbons, but only asking about $30 while definitely earning its place. The whiskey is a nice medium amber in the glass, producing nice thick legs. The nose is a little spicier than a typical bourbon with cinnamon, caramel, vanilla, and a slight alcohol burn. The burn is very slight considering the proof which gives credence to the 6-8 year age range estimate. Really nice. In the mouth it's no more Mr. Nice Guy! This juice hits you in the mouth like a runaway freight train. First there's the immediately noticable heat, followed quickly by sweet caramel and more rye spice. The sweet heat and spice battle for control of your taste buds with neither one winning. Just a beautiful flavor bomb in the mouth. The finish is long, fairly hot with more spice and oak char. It leaves a dry burn that just makes you want more, kind of like eating hot wings - hurts so good! This is the first whiskey I've tried with water that I have to say is really improved with it. Water tames the burn on the nose and the palate. The sweetness is deeper, richer on the palate, and the finish also becomes richer, warm instead of hot. Just beautiful. Considering the effect of the water I'd say this will be fantastic on the rocks. This is an excellent whiskey, even more so when you consider the price. Solid 4.5.