Wild Turkey American Honey 750ML

Wild Turkey American Honey 750ML is a 35% ABV bourbon-based honey liqueur from Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, in a 750ml bottle. Awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast and a Double Gold at the New York International Spirits Competition, this expression is widely credited as the original bourbon-honey liqueur — a category it launched in 1976.
Quick Facts: ABV: 35% (71 Proof)  |  Origin: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA  |  Bourbon-Honey Liqueur  |  Distillery: Wild Turkey
Production & Heritage
Master Distiller Jimmy Russell created the world’s first bourbon-honey liqueur in 1976, originally released under the name “Wild Turkey Liqueur with Honey.” The base bourbon uses Wild Turkey’s signature high-rye mashbill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, which is then blended with pure honey. That rye-forward backbone distinguishes American Honey from competitors that rely on lighter, less characterful base whiskeys — the spice and grain structure carries through despite the sweetness.
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Delicate and inviting, opening with natural honey sweetness before yielding to baked bread and subtle cornmeal. A faint floral note threads through the background alongside gentle citrus.
Taste: The entry is clean and bright, led by bold honey that avoids cloying territory. Mid-palate introduces caramel and orange peel, while the rye-driven base whiskey delivers integrated spice and lemon zest that balance the sweetness. The mouthfeel is noticeably thicker than a standard bourbon, giving it a rounded, almost syrupy texture.
Finish: Medium in length with light baking spice that lingers after the honey fades. A whisper of citrus and grain keeps the close from turning purely sweet.
How to Drink American Honey
Served chilled or over a single large ice cube, American Honey opens up nicely as the cold tames the sweetness and lets the bourbon character come forward. It also functions well in cocktails where a honey element is called for.
Gold Rush: The honey is already integrated, so pairing with fresh lemon juice and ice creates a streamlined version of this modern classic.
Honey Mule: Substituting American Honey for standard bourbon in a Kentucky Mule adds depth without needing a separate honey syrup.
Hot Toddy: The natural honey profile makes it an ideal base — just add hot water, lemon, and a cinnamon stick.
Best For
Introducing bourbon-curious drinkers to whiskey-based spirits through an approachable starting point
Building a home cocktail bar with a versatile honey-forward modifier
Cold-weather entertaining where Hot Toddies and warm serves are on the menu
Gifting someone who enjoys flavored spirits but wants something with genuine bourbon heritage
Frequently Asked Questions
What does American Honey taste like? American Honey leads with bright, natural honey sweetness balanced by caramel, orange peel, and baking spice from Wild Turkey’s rye-forward bourbon base. The mouthfeel is thick and smooth, finishing with light spice rather than pure sugar.
How does American Honey compare to Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey? Both are honey-whiskey liqueurs at similar proof points, but American Honey uses a higher-rye bourbon base that delivers more grain character and spice, while Tennessee Honey leans on the charcoal-mellowed smoothness of Jack Daniel’s. American Honey is generally considered spicier and more bourbon-forward by tasters who compare them directly.
Is American Honey good for cocktails? Yes — its built-in honey sweetness eliminates the need for honey syrup in drinks like the Gold Rush or Hot Toddy, and the 35% ABV integrates easily into mixed drinks without overpowering them.
Where is American Honey made? American Honey is produced at the Wild Turkey distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, located along the Kentucky River in the heart of bourbon country. The distillery has operated on the same site since 1869 and is now owned by Campari Group.
What foods pair well with American Honey? Sharp blue cheese contrasts the honey sweetness effectively. Pecan pie echoes the caramel and nutty bourbon notes. Spicy fried chicken benefits from the honey and citrus balance. Cornbread with butter mirrors the baked bread and cornmeal aromas. Dark chocolate with sea salt highlights the liqueur’s underlying spice.
What sizes does American Honey come in? The standard bottle is 750ml, and it is also commonly available in 1L, 375ml, and 50ml miniature formats depending on market.
Is American Honey worth the price? American Honey positions as an accessible, entry-level liqueur within the flavored whiskey category, and its competition-winning quality — including 91 points from Wine Enthusiast — places it at strong value relative to peers at the same price tier.
Why American Honey?
This is the bottle that started the bourbon-honey category. Jimmy Russell’s 1976 original recipe predates every competitor on the shelf, and the Wild Turkey mashbill — heavier on rye than most rivals — gives it a structural backbone that keeps the sweetness honest. A 91-point Wine Enthusiast score and a Double Gold from the New York International Spirits Competition back up the pedigree with critical validation. For anyone who wants a honey liqueur built on real bourbon craft rather than a marketing trend, American Honey remains the benchmark.