Russell’s Reserve is a super-premium product line of Wild Turkey of which there are four core whiskey expressions: Russell’s Reserve 6 Year Old Rye, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Rye, Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon, and Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon. Being a big fan of Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit (essentially, a single-barrel version of Wild Turkey 101) and a big fan of Wild Turkey in general, I looked forward to sitting down with Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel to see what it might have to offer.

Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon (abt 2013) – reported mash bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley – 110 proof, non-chill filtered KSBW – no age stated – distilled by Austin, Nichols Distilling Co. 

Tasted neat in a Canadian Glencairn after a few minutes rest …

Color: deep amber

Nose: candy corn, Boston Baked Beans (candy-coated peanuts), Werther’s Originals (toffee candy), buttered sweet corn, musty oak, signature “Wild Turkey rickhouse funk”

Taste: (very similar to the nose) Boston Baked Beans, toffee, vanilla, candy corn, very subtle rye spice, funky sweet oak

Finish: long & warm – waves of rye spice & oak char (finishes like a 110-proof bourbon should)

With a little water added: Brings forward some burnt sugar and slight floral notes, but the subtle rye spice has nearly vanished (still refreshing and enjoyable, however).

Overall: I’m really enjoying this bottle of Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel. It’s a solid single-barrel expression of the well-known and loved Wild Turkey bourbon profile, and as such, is certainly worth the $55 I paid for it.  It’s a great tasting whiskey from a quality distillery and welcome on my shelf any day.

Rating:  3.5/5 🦃