It’s been some time since I reviewed a Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon private selection, so I thought I’d change that today. Back in November, I visited North Augusta Wine & Beverage, a local bottle shop, and discovered a 2025 Camp Nelson A selection on display as I walked through the door. Naturally, I seized the opportunity and purchased a bottle. Until that day, I’d yet to taste a 2025 CNA barrel, though ironically, I would end up selecting two CNA barrels at Wild Turkey for a California retailer the week following. 

Camp Nelson first made a name for itself as a Wild Turkey maturation campus in 2018, when the Russell’s Reserve private selection program added Camp Nelson’s rickhouses A and F to the roster. It was quite a transition at the time, one initially met with some skepticism by fans who were accustomed to well-established Tyrone rickhouses like B, G, and K (among others). The following year, Camp Nelson A and F barrels dominated the single barrel program, dispelling any lingering skepticism or hesitation. In fact, those 2008- and 2009-distilled CNAs and CNFs are some of the most sought-after Russell’s Reserve selections today. 

In the years that followed, both Camp Nelson A and F continued to populate Wild Turkey’s private barrel allocation pool with additional Camp Nelson rickhouses in tow. While never reaching the near-universal acclaim of the 2008-2009-distilled selections, each Camp Nelson rickhouse eventually garnered its own loyal fanbase, with CNA gaining considerable attention in 2021 and 2022. When I think about it, 2022 CNA Kentucky Spirit selections remain some of my favorite modern Kentucky Spirit bottlings (largely due to their low barrel proofs, of which many clocked in at roughly 104-107). When you’re bottling at 101 proof, that makes a difference. 

It’s now 2026 and well past time for me to formally check in on Camp Nelson A. This 2025 CNA Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel selection should be perfect for the task. Will it prove as memorable or enjoyable as CNA bottlings of the past? There’s only one way to find out!

Russell's Reserve: Camp Nelson A

Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Proof: 110 (NCF)

Age: 8 years, 7 months

Misc.: Barrel no. 25-0728, CNA, 4th floor; selected by Isaac Suh; distilled & bottled by the Wild Turkey Distilling Co., Lawrenceburg, KY

Tasted neat in a Glencairn after a few minutes rest … 

Color: copper

Nose: vanilla, brown sugar glaze, boozy lemon squares, rickhouse oak, baking spice

Taste: caramel, peppery toffee, candy apple, buttered graham cracker, “prickly” cinnamon

Finish: medium-long w/ baked brown sugar, apple-cinnamon, savory orange soda, clove, nutmeg

Overall: Right from the start, this bourbon is undeniably 2020’s Wild Turkey. Vanilla, caramel, oak, baking spice, hints of fruit … every box on the “core Turkey” checklist is unquestionably marked. On the nose it almost reminds me of Rare Breed (especially if one had the ability to mute the subtle youthful traits of Rare Breed). That’s a noteworthy comparison starting off, as Rare Breed has proven itself time and time again as a staple for most whiskey enthusiasts. While I’d argue that Rare Breed’s six-year component gives the expression its signature boldness, it’s not exactly an attribute most fans look for in a private barrel selection. Fortunately, this Russell’s Reserve selection avoids that brashness and settles in with an aroma true to its eight-year age statement. 

On the palate, this Russell’s selection begins to reveal its Camp Nelson A origin – particularly notes of candy apple and lively spice (affectionately referred to as the “Camp Nelson prickle”). It may not be as sweet or well-rounded as 2018-2019 CNA barrels, but there’s a great deal to appreciate regardless. In many ways I’m reminded of 2025’s Wild Turkey 101 8-Year, though the CNA showcases more cohesiveness and balance. In fact, I’d argue the interplay between the sweet and spicy qualities of this Russell’s pick are superior to 101/8, as it should be for the proof (110), lack of chill filtration, and higher suggested retail price. 

As for the finish, I’m again reminded of Rare Breed. I’d argue Rare Breed’s finish is longer with greater strength (116.8 proof), while this Russell’s Reserve selection’s flavor diminishes in a more viscous and graceful fashion. I suppose it all comes down to what sipping experience one prefers. For their respective prices and profiles, I’m a fan of both whiskeys.

If you’re near the Augusta, GA metro area, I recommend visiting North Augusta Wine & Beverage. Last I checked, they still had some bottles available. Of course, I don’t expect that to last very long. At the very least it’s worth taking the time to call if you’re a fan of Camp Nelson A barrels (or Russell’s Reserve private selections in general). 

dj

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