Buffalo trace vs wild turkey 81

Today we talk about Buffalo trace vs wild turkey 81.

Buffalo Trace vs Wild Turkey 81 Overview

As an avid bourbon enthusiast, I often find myself drawn to the classics that define our industry. In my experience, Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey 81 stand out among the best choices, not just for their flavors but for their historical craftsmanship. According to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, the bourbon industry has grown by over 300% in the past decade, and with these two bourbons leading in sales, it’s essential to explore their differences and similarities.

What to Expect from This Comparison

This comparison will showcase key aspects such as flavor profiles, price points, and consumer preferences, using specific numbers and industry data to enrich our understanding. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey 81 unique in this burgeoning bourbon market.

Pre-Taste Analysis

Visual Appearance

When I pour Buffalo Trace into my glass, I notice its deep amber color, indicative of its aging process. Wild Turkey 81, on the other hand, displays a slightly lighter amber hue. According to Bourbon Enthusiasts, color can indicate the aging profile; Buffalo Trace typically ages for around 8 years, while Wild Turkey 81 ages for about 6 years in new charred oak barrels. This difference results in distinct visual representations, hinting at the flavor variations that await.

Aroma Assessment

The aromas from each bourbon offer insightful clues about their profiles. Buffalo Trace fills my senses with rich vanilla and caramel, usually drawn from its longer maturation. Meanwhile, Wild Turkey 81 presents a louder chorus of spices along with honeyed notes, attributed to its higher rye content of approximately 13%. The contrast in aromas sets a captivating stage for the tasting session to follow.

Tasting Notes

Tasting Buffalo Trace

When I take my first sip of Buffalo Trace, I’m met with smooth caramel flavors enveloping my palate, followed by a gentle spice that lingers. The bourbon has a balanced sweetness that leaves a warming finish. According to the Whisky Advocate, Buffalo Trace has won over 41 awards, underlining its broad appeal and esteemed reputation.

Tasting Wild Turkey 81

Conversely, Wild Turkey 81 offers a bolder sip, hitting my taste buds with a wave of vibrant spice that comes from its higher rye percentage. There’s a clear sweetness, potentially from the corn in the mashbill, and the finish is robust. I’ve read that Wild Turkey 81 has a slightly higher alcohol content at 40.5% ABV, contributing to its impactful flavor profile.

Flavor Profile Comparison

Sweetness and Spice

Buffalo Trace leans towards sweetness from its well-balanced mashbill, which has approximately 10% rye.
Wild Turkey 81, with a mashbill featuring about 13% rye, emphasizes spice, making it far bolder.

Body and Mouthfeel

Buffalo Trace feels medium-bodied, smooth, and approachable, enhancing the enjoyable sipping experience.
Wild Turkey 81 offers a fuller body that adds to the vibrancy of its robust flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a stronger sip.

Mashbills and Production Methods

Buffalo Trace’s Approach

Buffalo Trace uses a mashbill with about 10% rye, which is carefully distilled in traditional pot stills. This method, combined with their innovative practices, continues to engage bourbon lovers. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, Buffalo Trace represents a prime example of the high-quality bourbons produced in the U.S., recognized for its craftsmanship.

Wild Turkey 81’s Unique Process

Wild Turkey’s approach involves a mashbill that emphasizes a higher rye content of approximately 13%. They utilize a unique process where the bourbon undergoes a thorough column distillation before being barreled. This method enhances the spiciness that I find so appealing in Wild Turkey 81, setting it apart in the market.

Maturation Process

Buffalo Trace Barrel Aging

Buffalo Trace’s barrels are aged for an average of 8 years, utilizing new charred oak barrels that are crafted to maximize flavor extraction. The aging process takes place in high warehouses that allow for temperature variability, resulting in rich flavors and smooth finishes. This aspect of their production has contributed to Buffalo Trace being named the Best Bourbon under $50 by Food & Wine.

Wild Turkey 81 Barrel Aging

The barrels for Wild Turkey 81 age for approximately 6 years, showcasing a different level of maturity. The heat-cycled warehouses they use encourage the bourbon to interact more with the wood, resulting in a robust and lively character. This aging contributes to the product’s winning streak at various spirits competitions, where it often garners accolades for value and flavor.

Price Point & Value

Average Price Comparison

The average price for a bottle of Buffalo Trace hovers around $30, while I find Wild Turkey 81 typically sells for about $25. These prices indicate that both bourbons are accessible without sacrificing quality, making them popular choices among bourbon aficionados and casual drinkers alike.

Value for Money Considerations

In my opinion, both bourbons offer excellent value for their respective price points. Buffalo Trace delivers exceptional quality and depth, often considered a top-shelf option despite its mid-range pricing. Wild Turkey 81, with its bold flavor and rich tradition, rounds out this category well, making it a go-to choice for those seeking intense flavor at a reasonable cost.

Overall Verdict

When to Choose Buffalo Trace

I recommend choosing Buffalo Trace when you want a smooth and versatile bourbon that pairs excellently with food or is perfect for sipping on its own during a relaxing evening at home.

When to Choose Wild Turkey 81

Wild Turkey 81 is my go-to choice for social gatherings or events where a bolder flavor can enhance the experience. Its assertive character makes it an ideal choice for cocktails or spirited discussions.

Match Methodology

Criteria for Comparison

To compare these bourbons effectively, I considered multiple criteria: flavor complexity, aroma depth, aging techniques, and, crucially, price-to-value ratios. This methodology ensures I capture a well-rounded view of both Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey 81.

Reviewing the Results

After a thorough analysis, it’s clear that while Buffalo Trace offers a refined elegance, Wild Turkey 81 provides a bold adventure. Each bourbon shines in its own right, catering to vast preferences in the market.

Recommended Similar Bourbons

Top Alternatives to Consider

Evan Williams Black Label – Noted for its strong value.
Four Roses Yellow Label – Known for smoothness and balance.
Bulleit Bourbon – Offers a high rye experience akin to Wild Turkey.

Consumer Preferences

From my observations, consumers often gravitate towards Buffalo Trace for its smooth sipping experience while Wild Turkey 81 captures those in search of exhilarating flavors. Overall, personal preferences drive the ultimate choice.

FAQ

Where does Buffalo Trace rank among bourbons?

Buffalo Trace consistently ranks highly in bourbon rankings due to its superior flavor and significant awards, being a staple in many bourbon collections.

Is Buffalo Trace a top shelf?

Indeed, many bourbon drinkers consider Buffalo Trace to be a top-shelf bourbon due to its award-winning status and exceptional taste.

Is Wild Turkey top shelf?

Wild Turkey, particularly its higher proof offerings, is often viewed as a premium option, making it well-respected but positioned more towards the mid-shelf category.