Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 02:45 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 Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye in this head-to-head comparison and decide which 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
Rare Breed Bourbon vs Rare Breed Rye: Comparison
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon: Sweet aromas of vanilla and caramel meet a palate of baking spice and old leather, leading to a finish of vanilla and oak char. At 116 proof, it’s bold yet well-balanced, ideal for those who appreciate a strong, flavorful bourbon.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye: A bourbon-like rye with vanilla, butterscotch, and subtle spice on the nose, followed by a fruity, spicy palate. The long finish features chocolate and rye spice. At 112 proof, it’s perfect for those seeking a creamy, spicy rye experience.
Verdict: Both Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon and Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye deliver rich, full-bodied flavors. The bourbon offers a bold, sweet experience, while the rye provides a creamy, mildly spicy sip. Each stands out for its complex profile and high proof, catering to different tastes, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Wild Turkey’s Bourbons
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon: Sweet & Bold
- Alcohol content: 116 proof (58% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Wild Turkey 101
Attention bourbon lovers! If you’re seeking a powerful, flavorful experience, Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon might be your new best friend. This uncut, unfiltered gem packs a punch without being overbearing, making it a champion in both taste and value.
Here’s what you get:
- Nose: Honey, cinnamon, charred oak – a warm and inviting aroma with minimal alcohol presence.
- Taste: Creamy texture, initial warmth, then butterscotch, brown sugar, vanilla, and oak flavors emerge.
- Finish: Medium-long, warming with lingering notes of vanilla, leather, and classic Wild Turkey oak char.
Why you’ll love it:
- Sweet & Bold: This bourbon is full-bodied and packed with flavor, but it doesn’t overpower the palate.
- Great Value: It’s considered one of the best bourbons in its category, even surpassing some much pricier options.
- Wild Turkey’s Best: This is the pinnacle of Wild Turkey’s bourbon offerings, delivering an exceptional experience.
But keep in mind:
- High Proof: It’s bottled at 116 proof, so expect a warming sensation.
- Not Quite Rye: While this review is for the Rare Breed Bourbon, I understand you’ve also asked about the Rye. They are distinct products, with the Rye featuring a higher rye content (51%) and a spicier profile.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed facts:
- Blend of 6-8 and 12-year-old whiskeys.
- 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley mash bill.
- Gold medal winner at the New York International Spirits Competition 2020.
- Made by the Campari Group.
Remember: Taste preference is personal! If you enjoy bold, flavorful bourbons and appreciate good value, Rare Breed could be your new go-to. However, if you’re specifically seeking a rye-forward experience, explore the Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye instead, as this review focuses on the bourbon. Cheers!
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye: Creamy Sipper with a Hint of Rye Spice (Add Ice for Chocolate Bliss)
- Alcohol content: 112 proof (56% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Wild Turkey 101 Rye
Looking for a rye that’s more bourbon-like than your average rye? Rare Breed might be your match! It leans towards vanilla and butterscotch sweetness with a subtle rye spice, making it perfect for those who prefer a milder rye experience.
Here’s what you get:
- Nose: Think vanilla, butterscotch, and a hint of rye spice – inviting and sweet.
- Taste: Starts with a touch of heat, then transitions to fruity sweetness, rye spice, cinnamon, and black pepper. Creamy texture and moderate warmth.
- Finish: Long and warming, with bitter chocolate, rye spice, and oak char. Adding ice enhances the chocolate note.
Is it good? Absolutely! It’s a smooth sipper with a complex flavor profile. An ice ball helps bring out the best of it, highlighting the delightful bitter chocolate note.
But keep in mind:
- More bourbon-like: If you crave intense rye spice, this might not be your jam.
- High proof: It packs a punch, so be mindful of your sips.
- Ice is your friend: It can unlock more hidden flavors and make the experience more enjoyable.
Rare Breed Rye facts:
- Blend of whiskeys aged 4, 6, and 8 years.
- 51% rye grain mash bill (mild spice).
Remember: Spice preference is personal! If you prefer milder rye with a hint of spice and enjoy a creamy texture, Rare Breed could be your new go-to. But if you’re an experienced rye enthusiast seeking intense spice, explore bolder options. Cheers!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon | $56 |
| Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye | $47 |