Wild Turkey Rare Breed 116.8 Barrel Proof
75cl / 58.4%
£159.00
- Cask type: American oak
- Malt type: Bourbon
- Region: USA
- Chilfiltered: No
- Coloring: No
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A non-chill filtered, barrel-proof flagship bourbon defined by its high age components and robust, complex flavour profile.
| Field | Details |
| Distillery / Bottler / Country & Region | Wild Turkey Distilling Co. / USA, Kentucky Straight Bourbon |
| Category | Straight Bourbon Whiskey (Barrel Proof) |
| Age / Vintage / Bottled | Blend of 6, 8, and 12-year-old Bourbons / NAS / Batch 116.8 |
| ABV & Size(s) | 58.4% ABV (116.8 Proof), 70cl/75cl |
| Cask / Treatment | New, Charred American Oak |
| Natural Colour | Yes (Bourbon standard) |
| Non-Chill-Filtered | Yes |
| Cask Strength | Yes (Barrel Proof) |
| Bottle count / Outturn | Ongoing series, batch specific |
| Intended channel | Premium Retail, Specialist Bourbon Dealers |
| Packaging | Distinctive decanter-style bottle |
| Notes on discrepancies | Proof varies by batch; 116.8 must be verified on label. |
Historical Context
Wild Turkey Rare Breed was established as a foundational barrel-proof expression, embodying the brand’s commitment to intensity and technical authenticity. It is bottled directly at barrel proof and remains Non-Chill-Filtered (NCF).
Rare Breed is technically a blend of bourbons aged for 6, 8, and 12 years. The inclusion of the 12-year-old component is highly significant, serving as a crucial technical mediator to soften and integrate the high alcohol content (116.8 proof). Batch 116.8 is specifically recognised by connoisseurs for its unique profile and quality within the series, which subsequently drives a discernible secondary market premium.
Technical Specification & Variant Map
The defining technical requirement for sourcing this specific bottling is the exact proof: 116.8 proof, which equates precisely to 58.4% ABV. This figure is the absolute fundamental authenticator for this particular release. The confirmed NCF status ensures the retention of natural oils and esters, directly contributing to the full-bodied and viscous mouthfeel.
| Product | ABV | Volume | Market | Era Cues | Relative Desirability |
| Rare Breed Batch 116.8 | 58.4% (116.8 Proof) | 70cl/75cl | Global | Specific batch code required | High (Specific, highly desired batch) |
Packaging & authenticity checklist
The product is presented in a distinct, squat, decanter-style bottle. The critical authentication step lies in verifying the proof printed directly on the main label or cross-referencing the laser-etched batch code found on the glass, which must correspond unequivocally to the 116.8 Proof designation. Sourcing efforts must always prioritise proof verification over general Rare Breed status to avoid significant devaluation.
Regulatory/terminology notes
The bourbon is confirmed as bottled at Barrel Proof and is Non-Chill-Filtered (NCF). Both of these terms satisfy high-end consumer expectations regarding maximum flavour retention and intensity.
Liquid Profile (from verifiable notes)
The liquid profile of the 116.8 batch is a true high-proof experience, marked by a powerful integration of deep oak and robust rye spice.
- Nose: Notably powerful, dominated by robust notes of charred oak, interwoven with classic bourbon markers of vanilla, caramel, and honey. Distinct presence of rye spice evident.
- Palate: The mouthfeel is full-bodied and viscous. Provides an immediate delivery of intense spice (pepper and cinnamon) and char, leading into rich layers of dark vanilla, cured tobacco, and deep oak complexity. The mature components ensure the heat is well-integrated and warming.
- Finish: Exceptionally long and lingering. Continues with pronounced oak tannins and persistent spice, leaving a warm, satisfyingly chewy texture.
- With water: Highly recommended, as it can unlock deeper complexity, particularly accentuating the sweet caramel and vanilla components while effectively taming the intensity of the 116.8 proof heat.
Pricing & Market Dynamics (GBP)
- Recent UK/EU auction range (GBP, hammer): Expected to exceed current retail pricing ($\text{£60 - £80}$ baseline) due to the specific batch desirability.
- Pricing stratification: Pricing is driven almost exclusively by the verified batch proof. Bottles with perfect verification command significant market attention.
- Liquidity $\to$ sourcing note: Liquidity is high, supported by stable global demand for collectible American whiskey.
| Channel | Date | Bottle spec | Price (GBP) | Notes |
| Retail (UK) | Q1 2024 | Standard Batch (e.g., 112.8) | £60 - £80 | Baseline RRP for comparison |
| Auction (UK/EU) | Q4 2023 | Batch 116.8, Boxed | £120 - £200 | High desirability due to specific proof |
Distillery/Bottler Snapshot
Wild Turkey Distilling Co. is internationally renowned for its use of a high-rye mash bill and its uncompromising emphasis on full-flavour delivery. Rare Breed is recognised as the purest technical execution of the brand’s distinct philosophy.
Sourcing
Target formats/eras: Sourcing must exclusively target bottles explicitly marked with the 116.8 Proof (58.4% ABV) designation.
Red flags to avoid: Any bottles where the batch code, proof number, or identification laser etching is obscured, damaged, or entirely missing.
Condition thresholds: High integrity of the capsule and seal is critical to protect the high-proof liquid from atmospheric oxidation.
Margin/velocity expectations: High velocity is expected, offering strong margin potential by capitalising on the established reputation of specific, sought-after proofs.
