I love experimenting with different cocktails, and Wild Turkey bourbon makes some of the best. Whether you prefer a classic or something with a modern twist, these drinks are sure to impress your taste buds and your guests. High-quality bourbon is key, and Wild Turkey delivers just that.
Exploring these drinks is always an adventure. From the rich flavors of an Old Fashioned to the refreshing taste of a Mint Julep, there’s a Wild Turkey cocktail for every occasion. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that brings out the best in the bourbon.
Wild Turkey drinks & cocktails recipes
1. Wild Turkey 101 Old Fashioned
The Wild Turkey 101 Old Fashioned is a timeless whiskey cocktail. It features Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, a bit of simple syrup, and a couple dashes of Angostura bitters. These ingredients come together perfectly when stirred in an old-fashioned glass and garnished with a twist of orange peel.
For a touch more flavor, I sometimes like to muddle a bit of fresh fruit—maybe an orange slice or a cherry. This not only adds extra complexity but also makes the drink look a bit fancier. Trust me, this drink is a real crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it slowly to savor all its rich flavors.
2. Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is one of my favorite classic cocktails, with a rich history in the American South. Made with bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves, it’s perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Traditionally, it’s enjoyed during events like the Kentucky Derby. The drink isn’t just about taste; it’s about the experience.
Here’s a simple recipe:
- Ingredients:
- Bourbon whiskey
- Simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
I love savoring this cocktail slowly, feeling connected to its storied past.
3. Lawrenceburg Lemonade
This drink combines Wild Turkey 101 bourbon with the bright tang of lemon juice, creating a wonderfully balanced cocktail. To start, I mix the smooth bourbon with the zesty citrus notes from freshly squeezed lemon juice. I add a bit of simple syrup; this sweetness plays off the sharpness of the lemon, making each sip delightful.
A splash of club soda gives the drink a sparkling finish, making it light and refreshing. I like to garnish it with a lime wedge for an extra touch of citrus. For a twist, you can try adding a splash of ginger beer or even a bit of lime juice.
4. Wild Turkey Whiskey Sour
When making a Wild Turkey Whiskey Sour, I always use high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh lemon juice, Wild Turkey Bourbon, and simple syrup. For a creamy texture, I add an egg white. Here’s how I do it:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Ice
Steps to Make It:
- Add all ingredients to a shaker without ice and shake hard.
- Add ice and shake again until well-chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
Garnish:
- Lemon wedge or a dash of bitters
Remember, shaking with force helps blend the drink well. If you like, you can switch up the garnish to suit your taste.
5. Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is one of my favorite classic cocktails from the 1920s. It’s a simple mix: equal parts bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The drink has a slight bitterness from the Campari but is balanced well with the sweetness of the bourbon and vermouth. It’s smooth enough to enjoy as is or over ice cubes for a chilled twist.
6. Wild Turkey-and-Cranberry Cocktail
I love making the Wild Turkey-and-Cranberry Cocktail, especially during the holidays. It’s a simple drink that anyone can whip up quickly. The mix of Wild Turkey 101 and cranberry juice creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both bold and refreshing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz of Wild Turkey 101
- 4 oz of cranberry juice
- Ice
Just fill a glass with ice, add the Wild Turkey 101 and cranberry juice, give it a good stir, and enjoy!
7. Shoot a Wild Turkey Shot
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Wild Turkey bourbon
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 3 tbsp canned sweet potatoes
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions:
- Blend the bourbon, butterscotch schnapps, and sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into shooter glasses.
- Top with mini marshmallows.
- Toast the marshmallows to your liking using a culinary torch.
- Sprinkle a little fresh nutmeg on top.
I love how the sweet potatoes and nutmeg give these shots a cozy holiday touch. Be sure to use fresh nutmeg for that extra bit of flair. These are great for surprising guests with something unique and tasty.
8. Wild Turkey Hot Toddy
The Wild Turkey Hot Toddy is a warm drink that combines Wild Turkey bourbon, hot water, lemon juice, honey, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. I love making this drink because it warms me up and soothes my throat. It’s often enjoyed in a mug and is great for winter months. Many people also use it as a simple remedy for colds. This classic cocktail has been around for centuries and continues to be a favorite.
9. Wild Turkey Manhattan
The Wild Turkey Manhattan is a timeless whiskey cocktail with three main ingredients: Wild Turkey 101, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
To make it, I mix 2 parts Wild Turkey 101 with 1 part sweet vermouth. Then, I add a dash of bitters. This creates a beautifully balanced drink. Be sure not to overdo any of the components. Too much sweet vermouth makes it too sweet, while too many bitters can be overpowering.
For a touch of elegance, I garnish it with an orange twist. It’s perfect either neat or on the rocks.
10. Wild Turkey Paper Plane
I enjoy making the Wild Turkey Paper Plane cocktail. It has a great mix of Wild Turkey bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
Ingredients
- Wild Turkey Bourbon
- Aperol
- Amaro Nonino
- Lemon juice
- Honey syrup
I stir these ingredients together and strain them into a chilled martini or cocktail glass. The blend of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors is always a hit with bourbon lovers.
Summary
There are many awesome Wild Turkey bourbon cocktails you can try. A classic choice is the Wild Turkey 101 Old Fashioned. I suggest using Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, bitters, and a sugar cube. Just mix them together in a mixing glass with ice and stir. Then pour it into a rocks glass and garnish with an orange peel.
Another fantastic cocktail is the Whiskey Sour. It’s refreshing and easy to make. Combine Wild Turkey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass. This drink is well-balanced and perfect for any occasion.
You can also try a Mint Julep made with Wild Turkey bourbon. In a julep cup, muddle fresh mint leaves with simple syrup. Fill the cup with crushed ice and pour in the bourbon. Stir until the cup is frosty and garnish with a mint sprig.
For a bit of New Orleans flair, try the Sazerac. Mix Wild Turkey, rye whiskey, a sugar cube, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Rinse a rocks glass with absinthe and discard the excess. Strain the mixture into the glass and finish with a lemon twist.
These are just a few ways you can enjoy Wild Turkey bourbon in your cocktails!
Wild Turkey 101 tasting notes
Aroma
When I first sniff Wild Turkey 101, I’m greeted by a delightful blend of sweetness and spice. The scents of vanilla and caramel are prominent, mixed with hints of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. There’s also a subtle note of oak, a testament to its aging in charred oak barrels.
Taste
The moment I take a sip of Wild Turkey 101, I’m struck by its rich and warm flavors. The whiskey is smooth on my palate, with a balancing sweetness that complements the high alcohol content. Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg stand out, accompanied by flavors of caramel, toffee, and vanilla. The finish is long and warming, leaving a lingering taste of oak and spice.
Texture
Wild Turkey 101 has a creamy and smooth texture that I find quite enjoyable. The high alcohol content adds weight, making it feel substantial in my mouth. Its balanced sweetness and spices ensure a pleasurable drinking experience, whether enjoyed straight or in a cocktail.