Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:41 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.
Uncover the differences between Wild Turkey Longbranch and Wild Turkey Rare Breed in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which bourbon is your preferred choice!
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
Longbranch vs Rare Breed: Comparison
Wild Turkey Longbranch: A unique sweet bourbon with mesquite wood notes, offering a lighter body and distinct flavor profile. Suitable for those seeking a twist on traditional bourbon.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed: A high-proof bourbon that balances creamy texture and rich sweetness with oaky and spicy notes, providing exceptional value and complexity.
Verdict: Both Wild Turkey Longbranch and Wild Turkey Rare Breed shine in their own rights; one for its unique mesquite sweetness and lighter touch, the other for its rich, complex, and bold character. Each offers a distinct bourbon experience catering to varied palates, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Wild Turkey Bourbons
Wild Turkey Longbranch: Sweet Mesquite Take on Bourbon
- 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: Woodford Reserve
Aroma: Longbranch opens with a welcoming note of caramel, followed by a subtle hint of mesquite wood and warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon.
Taste: The whiskey has a lighter body compared to other Wild Turkey bourbons. The initial flavors of caramel and rye spice transition into mesquite, vanilla, and hints of old leather.
Finish: The medium-length finish offers lingering notes of maple syrup and mesquite wood.
My Thoughts:
Longbranch presents a sweeter profile compared to other Wild Turkey bourbons, with a distinct presence of mesquite wood throughout the tasting experience. This unique character may appeal to those seeking an alternative bourbon flavor.
Considerations:
Some bourbon enthusiasts might find Longbranch less creamy and flavorful compared to other Wild Turkey offerings. Additionally, the price point might be perceived as higher compared to other bourbons with similar characteristics.
Who Might Enjoy It:
If you enjoy sweeter bourbons with prominent mesquite notes, or are a fan of Matthew McConaughey, Longbranch could be an interesting option to explore.
Longbranch in a Nutshell:
- Aged eight years in heavily charred casks.
- Filtered with Texas mesquite and Kentucky white oak charcoal.
- Offers a sweeter profile with distinct mesquite wood notes.
- Lighter body compared to other Wild Turkey bourbons.
- Made using non-GMO grains.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed: A Rich and Bold Bourbon Experience
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, oak
- Palate: Baking spice, burnt sugar, vanilla, oak, old leather
- Finish: Vanilla, old leather, oak char
- Alcohol content: 116 proof (58% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Wild Turkey 101
Aroma: Rare Breed opens with a rich and inviting bouquet of honey, cinnamon, and charred oak, with minimal ethanol presence.
Taste: The palate is greeted by a luxurious and creamy texture, followed by a pleasant warmth. Flavor notes of butterscotch, brown sugar, vanilla, and toasted oak create a harmonious and complex character.
Finish: The medium to long finish delivers a warming sensation and lingering notes of vanilla, aged leather, and Wild Turkey’s signature charred oak.
Smoothness at High Proof: Despite its 116 proof, the sweetness and satisfying taste profile offer a surprisingly smooth drinking experience.
My Thoughts:
Rare Breed showcases a creamy texture and rich sweetness beautifully balanced against oaky and spicy notes. This combination creates an exceptional bourbon experience, arguably surpassing some options at a higher price point.
Value for Money:
Rare Breed delivers exceptional value for its price, making it a strong contender for the title of top Wild Turkey bourbon.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed in a Nutshell:
- Bottled at 116 proof, unchill-filtered, and barrel-proof.
- Blend of 6-8 year and 12 year old whiskeys.
- Offers a creamy texture, rich sweetness, and balanced oaky and spicy notes.
- Awarded Gold at the 2020 NY Spirits Competition.
- Made by Wild Turkey, owned by the Campari Group.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Wild Turkey Longbranch | $40 |
| Wild Turkey Rare Breed | $55 |