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Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin
It’s a mystery how Wild Turkey produces distinct flavors despite using the same mash bill on their whiskey variants. For instance, there’s the Longbranch bourbon whiskey that we’ve heard has a unique flavor profile.
Let’s learn more about this unique spirit in this Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon review.
What’s Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon?
Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon was released in 2018 as an addition to the Wild Turkey special series. This special breed of bourbon uses a unique filtration method that produces smooth and full-bodied spirits.
This variant also has a distinctly smokey taste acquired during the production process. The charcoal filtration [1] gave the spirit a smokey savor to the sweet and flavorful Longbranch bourbon.
Did You Know?
History
The award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey has been the creative ad director of Wild Turkey since 2016. He worked with Wild Turkey’s master distiller, Eddie Russel, for 24 months until they decided on using the Texas mesquite wood charcoal for filtration.
Because of Mr. McConaughey’s valued contribution, this bottle goes down in the history book of Wild Turkey. It is the only bottle with another individual’s signature apart from the two master distillers, Jimmy and Eddie Russell.
Production & Maturation Process
All Wild Turkey variants derive from grains, water, and yeast. They only use non-GMO grains which are not genetically modified. These are cooked in moderate heat to form sugar naturally.
The fermentation and distillation processes are the same as all Wild Turkey variants. However, Longbranch has a different filtration process where two steps are needed. The first filtration uses American white oak charcoal, while the final filtration utilizes Texas Mesquite charcoal.
Mash Bill
This bourbon whiskey combines 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, a standard blend of Wild Turkey. The difference in the mash bill of this small-batch bourbon is that it goes through double filtration to achieve a specific color and savor.
Ownership & Distillery
Wild Turkey Distillery is known for creating varied savory spirits and is owned by Campari Groups. Wild Turkey‘s distillery was built in 1850, but it did not begin until 1971.
It employs the “Buddha of Bourbon,” master distiller Eddie Russell. He is the longest-tenured, active master distiller who has been with the distillery for 64 years. The most recent addition to his magnificent concoctions is the Longbranch bourbon he collaborated with actor Matthew McConaughey.
Tasting Notes
Palate
The savor of American oak is fairly noticeable in this variant, making it a standout from the rest. It has smoky oak tannins complemented by the creamy vanilla and sweetness of peach and orange. The hints of spices also accentuate the warmth of the drink.
Its flavor profile is far from other Wild Turkey variants, thanks to Matthew McCaugnahey’s contribution. When made into oak charcoals, the Texas mesquite wood [2] gives that subtle smokiness to this bottle.
Nose
Like any Wild Turkey drink, the nose is greeted with the sweet scent of vanilla and caramel. However, this variant has a more intense smell of vanilla, smoke, and spice that sticks throughout.
Color
This bottled spirit has a bright gold color with just enough viscosity. It has a clear texture that denotes vibrance that fits its lively character.
Finish
We are somehow torn on the finish of this bourbon whiskey. The heat is a bit much, and there is a bitter flavor along with charred oak, dark chocolate, and toffee. Some who love bourbons will like this flavor profile, but it is better for sipping or on the rocks for us.
Price & Value
This variant is mid-priced and currently under the mid-shelf category. Since its release, it has acquired several followers who enjoy its blend. However, it has a long way to go before it can be seen as a great bottle like the other spirits from Wild Turkey.
Matthew McConaughey & Eddie Russell’s Collab
Wild Turkey’s Longbranch is a collaboration between McConaughey and Eddie Russell, Wild Turkey’s Master Distiller. In a press release, when Wild Turkey released Longbranch, McConaughey said how he felt about his relationship with the company.
In the simplest form, he sees it as an extended hand inviting a friend to be part of the Wild Turkey family. His idea of adding the Mesquite wood from Texas to the legendary Kentucky whiskey is him reaching back to them, making them a part of his family.
Common Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon Prices
| Type | Size | Alcohol By Volume | Average Price |
| Wild Turkey Longbranch Kentucky Straight Bourbon | 750 ml | 43% | Around $40 |
Compared to Other Bourbons
Jim Beam
Jim Beam bourbon whiskey is one of the popular budget bourbon brands with a good flavor. It greets the palate with buttered popcorn, cornbread, rye, oats, and other grains.
This bottle is good for cocktails because of its affordable price. Each 750 ml is sold for roughly $18, much cheaper than the new bourbon whiskey, Longbranch.
Basil Hayden’s
Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is another crowd favorite because of its savory taste. The burst of vanilla flavor with just a touch of apple is refreshing.
It is perfectly balanced with a nice aroma of brown sugar and spice. Every 750 ml is priced at roughly $43, the same price range as the Longbranch bottle from Wild Turkey.
Four Roses
Four Roses Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is one of the best whiskeys on the market. The aromas of corn, a hint of cinnamon, and sweet cherry tickle the nose.
A sweeter flavor is enjoyed with balanced fruity notes, caramel, and black pepper with just the right amount of smoke. The price range is along the area of Longbranch bourbon whiskey. This delicious treat is priced at around $43 per 750 ml.
Read: Wild Turkey Longbranch vs Rare Breed Bourbon
Popular Wild Turkey Longbranch Bourbon Cocktails
Branch Water
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Longbranch bourbon
- Half lemon juice
- Sparkling water
- Ice
- Lime wedge
Instructions:
Squeeze lemon juice in a highball glass filled with ice. Place garnish in the middle. Pour in bourbon, then top with sparkling water. Serve.
Serving: 1
Gold Rush
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Wild Turkey Bourbon
- ¾ ounce Honey
- ¾ Lemon Juice
Instructions:
Place all ingredients inside a shaker filled with ice halfway. Shake well. Pour over fresh ice, then garnish with orange peel. Serve.
Serving: 1
FAQs
Is Wild Turkey Longbranch bourbon expensive?
No, Longbranch bourbon whiskey is not expensive. It falls in the mid-priced whiskey prices.
Is Wild Turkey Longbranch limited?
No, Longbranch is not limited, but they make these in small batches. It could be because they are waiting for the overall rating of the whiskey around the world.
Final Thoughts
Wild Turkey Longbranch bourbon whiskey is a good addition to Wild Turkey’s whiskeys. The smokey flavor adds more character, which whiskey drinkers from all over the world are searching for.
It may not have the casks’ strength, but you can still enjoy this distilled spirit neat. The company withheld the age statement, but if this release connects to the drinking public, they may disclose fully that this is from an 8-year-old barrel. Longbranch being “just another bourbon addition” will not be a permanent expression if this happens.
References:
- https://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/energy/question209.htm
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0378112786900150
Lydia Martin hails from Redmond, Washington, where you’ll find some of the best cocktail bars and distilleries that offer a great mix of local drinks. She used to work as a bar manager in Paris and is a self-taught mixologist whose passion for crafting unique cocktails led her to create Liquor Laboratory. Lydia can whip up a mean Margarita in seconds! Contact at [email protected] or learn more about us here.
