Hello and welcome back to the channel. Today, I'm diving into the world of Wild Turkey versus Makers Mark, specifically their 101 proof products. Wild Turkey 101 is a bourbon that I've discussed extensively on this channel, known for its accessibility and hype among bourbon enthusiasts. It's a fan favorite that offers incredible value for its price point. On the other hand, Makers Mark introduced their 101 proof offering, sparking speculation about the influence of Wild Turkey's success on this decision. Today, we're on a mission to determine which 101 proof bourbon reigns supreme.
The Mash Bills and Ages
Both Wild Turkey and Makers Mark 101 are bottled at 101 proof, which sits at a sweet spot for many bourbon lovers. The mash bills for these two bourbons differ, with Wild Turkey consisting of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley. In contrast, Makers Mark is primarily a wheated bourbon, with a mash bill of 70% corn, 16% wheat, and 14% barley. The aging of these bourbons also varies, with Wild Turkey no longer carrying an age statement, while Makers Mark 101 is estimated to be around 6 years old, though not explicitly guaranteed.
Pricing and Availability
In terms of pricing, Wild Turkey 101 can range from £25 to £35, making it an affordable option for bourbon enthusiasts. On the other hand, Makers Mark 101 is often found as a Travelers exclusive in the UK and Europe, priced around £35 to £45 due to exchange rates and airport pricing. While Wild Turkey 101 is more widely available, Makers Mark 101 offers a more premium and exclusive experience for those who can access it.
Tasting Notes
Upon pouring both bourbons into glasses, you can immediately notice the differences in aroma and appearance. Wild Turkey 101 exudes a rich and slightly earthy profile with notes of leather and tobacco, along with typical bourbon flavors of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of chocolate. On the other hand, Makers Mark 101 presents a softer and more rounded aroma, with fruity notes of peach, apricot, and honey, complemented by hints of cherries and wheat.
When it comes to taste, Wild Turkey 101 impresses with its bold and spicy character, featuring pronounced rye flavors of cinnamon and pepper, balanced by dark fruit notes and a lingering leathery finish. In comparison, Makers Mark 101 offers a sweeter and more mellow palate, with vanilla, caramel, and woody undertones, accompanied by a cleansing sensation reminiscent of iodine and almond.
Final Thoughts
After tasting both Wild Turkey 101 and Makers Mark 101, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy the robust flavors of rye and a bold, spicy profile, Wild Turkey 101 is a fantastic option that delivers exceptional value for its price. On the other hand, Makers Mark 101 provides a smoother and more approachable drinking experience, with a focus on sweetness and fruitiness, albeit at a slightly higher price point.
Ultimately, both bourbons offer unique characteristics that cater to different palates, so why not try both and discover your preference for different occasions? Whichever you choose, you're in for a treat with these 101 proof gems from Wild Turkey and Makers Mark.
Thank you for joining me on this bourbon tasting adventure. If you enjoyed this blog post, please like and subscribe for more content. Until next time, cheers!
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