Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 07:52 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Maker’s Mark vs Wild Turkey Longbranch in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Maker’s Mark vs Longbranch: Comparison
Maker’s Mark: Features acetone, vanilla, and cherry on the nose, transitioning to a smooth blend of vanilla, caramel, cherry, and honey. The medium finish brings cherry, vanilla, and a hint of pepper, establishing it as a sweet, approachable choice for those who favor a milder whiskey experience.
Wild Turkey Longbranch: Opens with caramel, mesquite, nutmeg, and cinnamon aromas, leading to a palate of caramel, rye spice, mesquite, vanilla, and old leather. Its finish of maple syrup and mesquite offers a unique, sweet, and smoky profile, appealing to those who enjoy a distinctive twist on traditional bourbon flavors.
Verdict: Maker’s Mark stands out for its smooth, wheated profile, making it an excellent choice for easy sipping or those new to bourbon. Wild Turkey Longbranch, with its sweet mesquite character, offers a unique taste that may not suit everyone but is perfect for those seeking a bourbon with a distinctive, smoky sweetness, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Maker’s Mark Best Alternatives
Maker’s Mark: Smooth & Sweet Wheat Whiskey (But Not Your Cocktail Champ)
- Nose: Acetone, vanilla, cherry
- Palate: Vanilla, caramel, cherry, honey
- Finish: Medium, cherry, vanilla, pepper
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: George Dickel 12
Maker’s Mark stands out with its unique wheated mash bill, replacing the usual rye with soft red wheat. This gives it a distinct character you’ll notice right away.
The aroma starts with a curious note some describe as similar to nail polish, but evolves into pleasant vanilla and cherry hints.
On the palate, it’s a smooth operator. Imagine vanilla, caramel, cherries, and honey dancing together, leaving a satisfying sweetness. The finish isn’t long, but maintains that sweetness with a touch of black pepper and gentle warmth.
Want it even smoother? A drop of water transforms it into a Tootsie Pop dream, perfect for easy sipping.
Is it good? Absolutely! Maker’s Mark is well-rounded, harmonious, and easy-drinking. It’s a great entry point for bourbon beginners or an everyday sipper for those who prefer a mild experience.
But here’s the kicker: For classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, I prefer bolder flavors. The wheat in Maker’s Mark, while giving it smoothness, can lack the punch that rye whiskeys bring to the table.
Maker’s Mark Facts:
- 70% corn, 16% red wheat, 14% malted barley mash bill
- Aged 6-7 years, based on taste, not time
- Signature red wax seal, hand-dipped
- Owned by Beam Suntory (also owns Jim Beam)
So, give Maker’s Mark a try! It’s a smooth and delicious bourbon. Just remember, for some cocktails, rye might be your knight in shining armor.
Wild Turkey Longbranch: Sweet Mesquite Delight (But Perhaps Not for Everyone)
- Nose: Caramel, mesquite, nutmeg, cinnamon
- Palate: Caramel, rye spice, mesquite, vanilla, old leather
- Finish: Maple syrup, mesquite
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Gentleman Jack
Longbranch Bourbon lures you in with a caramel aroma, followed by a whisper of smoky mesquite wood and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. On the palate, it’s a touch lighter than some might expect, but delivers a flavor journey starting with caramel and rye spice, evolving into mesquite, vanilla, and aged leather.
The finish hangs around with a hint of maple syrup and smoky mesquite, offering a unique twist on classic bourbon notes.
Compared to Wild Turkey’s standard bourbon, Longbranch trades creaminess for sweetness and boasts a more prominent mesquite influence throughout. Some will relish this smoky sweetness, while others may find it a bit excessive, overshadowing the Wild Turkey character.
So, is it good? It depends on your preferences. If you enjoy sweeter bourbons with a distinct mesquite touch, Longbranch could be a satisfying sip. However, if you crave the robust, creamy profile of classic Wild Turkey, you might want to explore other options from their range.
Longbranch Facts:
- Aged for 8 years in heavily charred casks
- 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Barley mash bill
- Made with non-GMO grains
- Wild Turkey legacy since 1891, now part of the Campari Group
Ready to decide if Longbranch fits your bourbon style? Give it a try and see where your taste buds lead you!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Maker’s Mark | $31 |
| Wild Turkey Longbranch | $40 |