The Still & The VineSchool of Wine & Spirits
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon
BourbonIssue 54

Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon

Russell's Reserve · Wild Turkey Distillery

110 proofNASLawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA
This is mature, no-nonsense bourbon that rewards patience both in the glass and in the warehouse. Eddie and Jimmy Russell's hands-off philosophy shines here — the barrel did the talking. At 110 proof it stands up to ice or a splash of water without losing character.

Kit Aromas

Tasting Notes

Nose

A bold wave of caramel and charred oak opens the nose, followed by dried cherry and baking spice. Underneath, there is a quiet earthiness and vanilla sweetness that anchors the more assertive notes.

Palate

Full-bodied and chewy, with brown spices hitting first, then butterscotch and leather unfolding in layers. The mid-palate brings dark cocoa and toasted pecan, carried by a satisfying corn sweetness.

Finish

Long and warming, with charred oak, tobacco, and lingering rye spice that dries elegantly. A faint cherry note appears at the very end.

Specifications
Mash Bill
75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Barrel Type
New charred American oak, #4 alligator char
Bottled in Bond
No
Single Barrel
Yes
Wheated
No
Serve & Pair

Cocktail Suggestion

Rickhouse Old Fashioned — 2 oz Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon · 0.25 oz demerara syrup · 3 dashes Angostura bitters · 1 dash orange bitters · Stir over a large ice cube, express an orange peel over the surface.

Food Pairing

Smoked brisket with a black pepper bark

The Story

Selected barrel by barrel at the Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, by third-generation master distiller Bruce Russell under the watchful guidance of his father Eddie and legendary grandfather Jimmy.

Train These Aromas
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