JACK

M E N ' S C U L T U R E 7 T he rare small-batch Kentucky bourbon is refined with Texas Mesquite and oak charcoals – a unique method that deepens the flavor and complexity of the whiskey. The name is inspired by the friends that form the longest branches of our family trees. Matthew McConaughey has been the brand’s creative director since 2016, working behind the camera and in front of it in television commercials to reintroduce the world to Wild Turkey. Commenting on the meaning behind Longbranch Matthew McConaughey says, “Longbranch, in its simplest form, is an extended hand, inviting a friend into your family,” McConaughey says. “So the branch that was extended to me from the Russells was a long one, one that reached from Kentucky to Texas and back again. I offered the Mesquite from my great state to add to their legendary Kentucky whiskey and together we made Longbranch.” To create Longbranch's signature flavor, McConaughey and Russell spent countless hours sharing notes, then perfected a unique process that combines two separate charcoal filtration methods to give Longbranch a smooth and full finish. The first filtration process uses charcoal made from American White Oak and the second uses charcoal made from Texas Mesquite wood, giving the bourbon notes of smoky sweetness. Made with eight-year-old Wild Turkey Bourbon, Longbranch is an exceptional bourbon with a bright gold colour and aroma that is a balanced blend of vanilla and spices. Flavours of caramel, pear, and hints of citrus round out the palate. The subtle, smoky finish is buttery smooth, with notes of gentle pepper and toasted oak. Commenting on the release, Master Distiller Eddie Russell said: “When we were creating Wild Turkey Longbranch, we talked at length about how to make a product that represents elements of both Texas and Kentucky. “Our goal was to make a straight bourbon whiskey with a soft sweetness that was still unmistakably Wild Turkey. The result was a bourbon that we both truly enjoy drinking neat, and look forward to sharing with others.” B ourbon has been around since the early 1800s - since then we’ve seen it evolve in many ways with the distilling process becoming even more refined and master distillers around the world putting their personal touch on the liquid. For gents new below is a simple guide to get you talking the language and understanding the key differences that set bourbon apart from other spirits. So, like Matthew you can sit back and enjoy a glass or two of the finest. BOURBON To look at, bourbon is a brighter amber, darker liquid. With strong upfront vanilla and caramel notes, it has its own aroma and, most importantly, a bigger, bolder taste. Here are some of the key differences that make bourbon so unique. WHISKY GRAINS Bourbon is made with a mix of grains (corn + flavour grain + small amount of malted barley, AKA a ‘Mash Bill’). It’s aged in a unique style of oak barrel: new, virgin, charred, American White Oak giving it its bold flavour. THE AGEING PROCESS The production process allows it to mature and develop in a way that gives bourbon its distinct flavour. In American whiskey production, only brand-new and heavily charred barrels can be used. This type of wood will deliver an extreme amount of flavour and colour in a short period of time. CRAFT If there’s one thing that sets some bourbons apart from others, it’s craft – Wild Turkey is a premium bourbon and its Kentucky distillery has been making it the same way for over 100 years. It takes time to craft a good bourbon but Wild Turkey is uncompromising in its approach to quality. They believe in doing things the right way, not the easy way. Where to Start For those new to bourbon a sweeter/smokier bourbon such as Wild Turkey Longbranch is a great introduction to the spirit. While more-refined bourbon drinkers tend to enjoy it neat or on ice, a resurgence in classic cocktails allows those new to drinking bourbon to try the spirit as a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. First introduced as a way to enjoy Japanese whisky, bourbon is also great as a highball mixed with soda water and garnish. A good bottle of whisky can be expensive, so understanding the nuances and asking the right questions beforehand will help find the right style for you. A good way to educate yourself is to experiment at different bars where you can be taken through the various styles. Often, understanding how a whisky has been made and the story of its being is half the experience as you discover what works for your palette. Enjoy How to L I K E M AT T H E W M C C ONA U G H E Y Bourbon