The Bourbon Road

445. Crazy Eights: Exploring the Wild Turkey 8-Year Legacy


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Hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter, feature special guest David Sandlin, bourbon historian and owner of House of Commons in Frankfort, Kentucky . This episode, affectionately dubbed "Crazy Eights," embarks on a fascinating tasting journey through five different versions of Wild Turkey 8-year bourbon .

The hosts and David analyze various expressions, starting with the recently released 2025 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 . They delve into its nose, noting hints of peanut shell, lemon, and a spicier, more prominent rye note than typically found in Wild Turkey, along with subtle clove and dark chocolate . The 2025 release is also described as more nutty and spicy compared to the 70th anniversary edition .

Next up is the 70th Anniversary release, honored for Jimmy Russell's 70th anniversary . This expression showcases more classic citrus and honey notes, with a softer, more viscous palate and hints of overripe cherries . The discussion touches on the different Wild Turkey rickhouse campuses—Tyrone, McBrayer, and Camp Nelson—and their influence on the bourbon's profile .

The journey continues with the 2018 Wild Turkey 8-year 101, which presents a more subdued, classic Wild Turkey profile, with notes of citrus, dark fruits, and honey . Following this, the 2014 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 reveals a distinct "turkey funk," with rich toffee, caramel, and a unique savory, almost meaty flavor, suggesting a lower barrel entry proof .

Finally, the 2002 Wild Turkey 8-year 101 is introduced as a "big hitter" . This expression is lauded for its rich, balanced oak and spice, creamy caramel, and evolving flavors of vanilla, offering a concentrated and complex experience . The hosts discuss the history of the 8-year expression, noting its absence from the American market since 1992 until recently, being primarily an export product .

The podcast concludes with the hosts and David ranking their top three pours, with the 2002 taking the top spot, followed by the 2014 and the 70th Anniversary edition .

David Sandlin, owner of House of Commons, is celebrated for his extensive knowledge of bourbon history, flavors, and his role as a mixologist . House of Commons, located in Frankfort, is highlighted as the only vintage distilled spirits bar in the area, offering a vast selection of Kentucky spirits and a unique bourbon experience, with Airbnbs available above the bar for travelers .

Bourbon on the Banks 2025

Smokeys Lifestyle Cigars

The Hill House Bed and Breakfast

Be sure to check out our private Facebook group, "The Bourbon Roadies" for a great group of bourbon loving people. You will be welcomed with open arms!

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