Russell’s Reserve
Russell’s Reserve is a premium line of bourbons from Wild Turkey Distillery, one of the most respected names in American whiskey. Known for their rich flavor profiles, consistency, and exceptional craftsmanship, Russell’s Reserve bourbons are beloved by whiskey connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. The brand is named after Jimmy Russell, Wild Turkey’s legendary master distiller, who has spent more than 60 years perfecting the art of bourbon making. With expressions that range from entry-level to rare limited-editions, Russell’s Reserve has established itself as a staple for those who appreciate high-quality, traditional bourbon.

The History Behind Russell’s Reserve
The creation of Russells-Reserve was a tribute to the skill and legacy of Jimmy Russell, who began his career at Wild Turkey in 1954. Over the years, Jimmy developed a deep understanding of the aging process and bourbon craftsmanship. His expertise led him to create Russell’s Reserve as a line that would showcase his refined methods and the distinctive flavors of Wild Turkey’s bourbon. The Russells-Reserve line was launched in 2000 with the intent to offer a more premium and refined experience than the core Wild Turkey offerings. Today, it stands as one of the most respected names in the world of bourbon.
Russells Reserve Bourbon: The Signature Expression
At the heart of the Russells-Reserve lineup is the flagship Russells-Reserve Bourbon. Known for its rich flavor and smooth texture, this bourbon is a favorite among both new drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs. The whiskey is crafted using a high-rye mash bill, which gives it a spicy kick, while the aging process imparts deep flavors of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Russells-Reserve Bourbon is bottled at 90 proof, making it a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Its approachable yet complex flavor profile makes it one of the most popular bourbons in its class.
Russells Reserve 10 Year Old: Aged Perfection
One of the standout offerings from Russells-Reserve is the 10 Year Old Bourbon. Aged for a decade, this bourbon has a richer, more complex flavor profile compared to the flagship expression. The extended aging allows the bourbon to develop deeper flavors, including hints of oak, caramel, and baking spices. Bottled at 90 proof, the Russells-Reserve 10 Year Old offers a full-bodied experience that balances sweetness and spice, making it a perfect choice for sipping or mixing. The bourbon has garnered critical acclaim for its craftsmanship, and it’s considered one of the best 10-year-old bourbons available on the market today.
Russells Reserve 6 Year Old: A Younger Expression
The Russell’s Reserve 6 Year Old is another popular expression in the lineup. While younger than the 10 Year Old, this bourbon still offers a complex profile with an excellent balance of sweetness and spice. Aged for six years, it has a lively character with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle rye spice. The 6 Year Old is bottled at 90 proof and is perfect for those looking for a smoother, more approachable bourbon that still maintains the rich flavors for which Wild Turkey is known. This expression is a great entry point for those new to the world of Russell’s Reserve.
Russells Reserve Single Barrel: A Unique Experience
For those who prefer a more individualized and intense bourbon experience, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is a standout. This bourbon comes from a single barrel, meaning that each bottle has a slightly unique flavor profile based on the specific barrel from which it was drawn. The Single Barrel expression is known for its full-bodied, robust flavors, with rich notes of toffee, vanilla, oak, and spice. Bottled at 110 proof, the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel packs a punch, making it ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks. Due to the nature of single-barrel whiskeys, no two bottles are the same, adding an element of surprise and excitement for whiskey enthusiasts.



Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Old: Limited Edition Excellence
The Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Old is a rare and highly sought-after limited edition from Wild Turkey. Aged for 13 years, this bourbon is crafted with the utmost care, and only a small number of bottles are released each year. The 13 Year Old expression is known for its complex and sophisticated flavors, including deep oak, rich caramel, and dark chocolate. At 114.8 proof, it’s a cask-strength bourbon that offers an intense drinking experience. Because of its limited availability and age, Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Old often commands a premium price, but it’s considered a must-have for serious collectors and bourbon connoisseurs.
Russell’s Reserve Rye: A Spicy Alternative
For those who enjoy a spicier profile, Russells-Reserve Rye offers a bold alternative to the brand’s bourbons. Made with a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill, this rye whiskey has an unmistakably spicy, peppery character. The rye brings out flavors of cinnamon, clove, and a hint of fruit, while the aging process imparts a smooth, rich finish. Bottled at 104 proof, Russell’s Reserve Rye is a flavorful and versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like the Whiskey Sour or Manhattan. It’s a great option for anyone who enjoys the bold flavors of rye whiskey.
Russell’s Reserve Limited Editions: Collectible Treasures
In addition to its core expressions, Russells-Reserve occasionally releases limited edition bottles, often to commemorate significant milestones or anniversaries. These special releases are highly anticipated by collectors and can become extremely valuable over time. Examples of limited edition bottles include special cask finishes or rare aged expressions, like the Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Old mentioned earlier. While these bottles can be difficult to find, they’re often regarded as some of the best expressions from the distillery. The rarity of these limited editions, combined with their exceptional quality, makes them highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts around the world.
The Distillation Process: Crafting Excellence
The process behind making Russells-Reserve whiskey is rooted in tradition, with each step carefully executed to ensure a high-quality product. Wild Turkey uses a high-rye mash bill in many of its expressions, which gives the bourbon its signature spicy kick. The distillation process takes place in copper stills, and the whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels, which contributes to its rich flavor profile. The long aging process allows the whiskey to draw out complex flavors from the wood, and the climate of Kentucky, with its hot summers and cold winters, accelerates the maturation process, enhancing the overall character of the bourbon.


People Also Ask: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Russell’s Reserve Bourbon and Wild Turkey Bourbon?
Russells-Reserve Bourbon is a premium line from Wild Turkey, crafted with higher-quality ingredients and aged longer. It features more complex flavors, with expressions that range from 6 to 13 years in age, while Wild Turkey Bourbon is typically younger and more affordable. Russell’s Reserve is generally considered a more refined and robust product compared to regular Wild Turkey.
2. How long is Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old aged?
The Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old is aged for a full 10 years, which allows it to develop a deeper and more complex flavor profile. The extended aging results in rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a smooth finish that sets it apart from younger expressions.
3. Is Russell’s Reserve Rye a good whiskey?
Yes, Russell’s Reserve Rye is a highly regarded rye whiskey. It has a bold, spicy flavor with hints of cinnamon and clove, and its 104 proof provides a robust experience. It’s ideal for fans of rye whiskey who appreciate a smooth yet spicy profile.
4. What is the best Russell’s Reserve whiskey to try?
The best Russell’s Reserve whiskey depends on personal preference. For those new to the brand, the Russell’s Reserve Bourbon and Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old are great starting points. If you enjoy a more intense experience, the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel or the 13 Year Old limited edition are excellent choices.
5. Where can I buy Russell’s Reserve?
Russells-Reserve products can be found at most well-stocked liquor stores, although certain limited editions may be harder to find. Some online retailers may carry these products, but be prepared for higher prices for rarer bottles. Check with local liquor stores or distributors for availability.
Conclusion: The Mastery of Russell’s Reserve
Russells-Reserve represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and quality in the world of bourbon and whiskey. From the flagship Russell’s Reserve Bourbon to rare limited editions like the 13 Year Old and Single Barrel, each expression showcases the expertise of Wild Turkey’s legendary distillers, particularly Jimmy Russell. The brand has successfully built a reputation for producing whiskeys that are rich, smooth, and full of character, making it a favorite among whiskey lovers and collectors. Whether you prefer a classic bourbon, a spicy rye, or a rare collectible bottle, Russell’s Reserve offers something for everyone who appreciates fine whiskey.