Overview: A bottle of Wild Turkey Rare Breed Kentucky Straight Bourbon is available for purchase at Costco warehouses. Produced at the Lawrenceburg, Kentucky distillery, this barrel-proof expression combines bourbons aged six, eight, and 12 years. It was first released in 1991 as one of the earlier barrel-proof bourbons on the market.
The Full Story
The liquor department at Costco is described as a hidden gem offering an impressive selection of bourbons. While any liquor store carries a lineup of familiar bottles, Costco offers an impressive selection including some that even seasoned collectors would happily add to their private stashes. Sara Havens, director of whiskey at CaskX and a World Whiskies Awards judge, notes that shoppers often find great discounts in the spirits area. She states that whenever she shops at Costco, she always swings by the liquor store area first because you never know what is going to be found.
The distillery traces its roots back to the 19th century, but the Rare Breed expression was first released in 1991. This release combines bourbons aged six, eight, and 12 years, bottled without dilution to preserve natural strength and flavor. It is a more powerful, concentrated pour clocking in at 116.8 proof (58.4% ABV), with pronounced notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and baking spice.
Production & Profile
This Kentucky straight bourbon features a rich, full-bodied mouthfeel accompanied by a warming finish. Timo Torner, certified bartender and founder of Cocktail Society, recommends Rare Breed for drinkers who want a more intense bourbon. He also suggests adding a small splash of water to make its strength easier to adjust to personal taste.
Brand & Industry History
While the distillery traces its roots back to the 19th century, the Rare Breed expression was first released in 1991. This timeline makes it one of the earlier barrel-proof bourbons on the market, establishing a legacy within the Kentucky Straight Bourbon category.
What This Means
Sara Havens states that whenever she shops at Costco, she swings by the liquor store area first because you never know what is going to be found — and at great discounts. The release highlights a selection where seasoned collectors would happily add to their private stashes, offering an opportunity for newcomers or seasoned whiskey drinkers to explore quality and character.
Consumer Takeaway
This bottle offers a powerful, concentrated pour clocking in at 116.8 proof. It provides pronounced notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and baking spice for those seeking an intense bourbon experience. Be forewarned, however, that availability may vary by warehouse and state.
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