Wild Turkey, the iconic American Bourbon brand from Kentucky and the winner of several awards in Australia, Japan and Asia-Pacific countries, has been launched in the country in a new variant by Campari India.

Increased by just one proof from the standard release Turkey, Wild Turkey 81 is characterised by the bold, authentic full-bodied flavour, and is aimed at the Bourbon drinker set on blending the spirit in cocktails.

The iconic brand, led by father and son Master Distiller team of Jimmy and Eddie Russell, still make real Kentucky Straight Bourbon the same way – the right way! Wild Turkey 81 Proof was crafted by Eddie as a way to experience the true bold flavour of Wild Turkey at an approachable 40.5% ABV.

Using a mix of aged 6-, 7- and 8-year-old whiskies (much older than what is typical for its price point), he created a Bourbon that shines through concoctions, especially when used in cocktails.

Wild Turkey 81 exhibits the full-frontal signature corn mash that is the hallmark of all Wild Turkeys, and long, rich, full-bodied character that comes from aging in #4 alligator char American oak barrels. Tasted neat, it demonstrates the iconic Kentucky Bourbon flavors that are the result of generations-old processes.

An amber-bronze hue, Wild Turkey 81 starts with a fragrant aroma of honey and caramel and kicks off on the palate with the trademark Wild Turkey sweetness, then transforms in notes of maple and vanilla, finishing with sharp, toasty finish.

The whiskey is available at select retailers in India at Rs 2,623 (indicative price; varies by state) per 750-ml bottle (www.wildturkey.com).