Wild Turkey Longbranch

Despite the hype, it's just okay. It's easy to drink, looks good, and is reasonably priced, like everything else from that family. And though they've ventured into the movie industry, which feels out of place, this barely avoids being a gimmick. I question the mesquite claim; the wood notes seem subtle. Not so subtle it's gone, but definitely mild. Imagine a very slight wood presence. Never mind. Adding anything but your mouth to this glass will ruin it. It's best enjoyed neat because it lacks a strong foundation. However, with these weaknesses, it offers good value and is ideal for gatherings where guests don't know much about whiskey, will drink a lot, and you can appear unfazed because it was cheap. You'll be the cool one letting people chug your expensive spirits and keeping the empty bottle. That's you. You're the cool one. Remember that. In that situation, which won't happen to me but might happen to you, this bottle is your perfect sidekick.

It has the characteristic Wild Turkey aroma, quite similar to Rare Breed 10 on the nose, with notes of tobacco, leather, cinnamon spice, and a hint of earthiness. Initially, I disliked it upon opening the bottle. We finished half of it among friends on the first night. I predicted that with a couple of weeks in a partially full bottle, it would improve. It did. It tastes like a watered-down mix of Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed 10, but lacking the strengths of either, it occupies an odd middle ground, prompting questions about its necessity in the Wild Turkey range. The answer is no. My final assessment: after two weeks with some air, Longbranch possesses all the qualities of a good Wild Turkey product, yet it ultimately falls short, particularly for its price point, making it not worth around $20 more than Wild Turkey 101 or $5 less than Rare Breed.

Neat - The nose smells quite pleasant but is also very faint. Typical bourbon notes of corn, vanilla, and honey are present but very subtle. Consequently, the aromas aren't obviously translated to the palate. On the palate, vanilla is the most prominent flavor. It's very faint, but goes down extremely smoothly. The finish is sweet and lingers pleasantly.

Smells like spicy pecan / pecan shell. The color is very light, but the legs are strong! It holds well and you can feel its presence in your mouth, pressing down on your tongue as you drink. This is intense! The initial taste is just a gentle but overwhelming spice that then fades into a finish that feels like chewing tree bark. It leaves your mouth dry. This novel experience has made me want more.

Neat The nose is primarily characterized by woody tannins in a pleasant way, supported by fruit woods I use for cooking or smoking. Apple and cherry notes, they alternate with each sniff. The palate is classic bourbon with more tart green apple becoming noticeable. A nice finish for a low proof point, with charcoal smoke appearing towards the end. Likely one of the best celebrity whiskeys available.

I like this bourbon. It's quite spicy and tastes stronger than its stated proof. The aroma definitely has vanilla with a touch of pleasant oak. The finish is spicy and very pleasing. Given its quality price, I suggest keeping it on your shelf. It's a good transition for new bourbon drinkers or for experienced ones who want something a bit lower in proof without compromising flavor. Recommended.