Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel: The Best Bottle of Bourbon I’ve Had This Year
There’s something magical about finding a bottle that surprises you, especially when it’s from a distillery as well-known as Wild Turkey. This year, that magic came in the form of Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel, a bourbon that doesn’t just deliver on expectations—it exceeds them.
At 110 proof, this single barrel beauty packs a punch, but what makes it truly remarkable isn’t just its strength; it’s the balance and depth that comes with it. Without a doubt, this is the best bottle of bourbon I’ve had this year, and I’m about to tell you why it deserves a spot on your shelf.
The Wild Turkey Legacy
Russell’s Reserve is a product of the Wild Turkey Distillery, a name synonymous with quality bourbon. For years, Wild Turkey has consistently produced high-caliber whiskeys, but their single barrel expressions take things to the next level. With each bottle pulled from a unique barrel, no two will be exactly the same, giving you a slightly different experience every time. But this bottle? It hits all the right notes.
The Stats: Bold and Balanced at 110 Proof
At 110 proof, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel comes in with a hefty kick. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re someone who appreciates the bolder side of bourbon, this is where the magic happens. The alcohol content could easily overpower a lesser whiskey, but in this case, it acts as a frame, holding up the flavors without drowning them out. It’s a robust pour that manages to retain its elegance, and that’s no easy feat.
The Nose: Peanut Butter and Cotton Candy
Let’s start with the nose, because it’s an experience unto itself. As you take a sniff, you’ll notice an unexpected but delightful combination of peanut butter and cotton candy. It’s as if you’ve wandered into a carnival, with rich, nutty undertones mingling with a light, sugary sweetness.
Peanut butter isn’t a note you come across in every bourbon, and it gives Russell’s Reserve a unique character right from the start. Paired with the whimsical sweetness of cotton candy, it’s a nose that keeps you intrigued and invites you in for that first sip.
The Palate: Sweet Oak and Toasted Nuts
Once you take that first sip, prepare for a fiery bite. The 110 proof ensures you feel the warmth immediately, but it’s not an overwhelming heat. Instead, it quickly mellows, making way for a smoother, richer flavor profile. The mid-palate is where the magic happens—sweet oak and toasted nuts take center stage, balancing the bourbon’s heat with a savory, almost creamy richness.
This is where Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel shows its depth. The sweet oak gives a lovely, woody backbone, while the toasted nuts provide a satisfying crunch of flavor that lingers on the tongue. It’s a flavor profile that feels classic yet elevated, and it keeps you coming back for more.
For the palate, this bottle scores a solid 77 out of 100. The flavors are well-balanced, but it’s the interplay between the sweet and the savory that really stands out. You won’t find the complexity of rare or ultra-aged bourbons here, but you will find an enjoyable and satisfying pour that can hold its own against some of the best bottles on the market.
The Palate: Sweet Oak and Toasted Nuts
Once you take that first sip, prepare for a fiery bite. The 110 proof ensures you feel the warmth immediately, but it’s not an overwhelming heat. Instead, it quickly mellows, making way for a smoother, richer flavor profile. The mid-palate is where the magic happens—sweet oak and toasted nuts take center stage, balancing the bourbon’s heat with a savory, almost creamy richness.
This is where Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel shows its depth. The sweet oak gives a lovely, woody backbone, while the toasted nuts provide a satisfying crunch of flavor that lingers on the tongue. It’s a flavor profile that feels classic yet elevated, and it keeps you coming back for more.
For the palate, this bottle scores a solid 77 out of 100. The flavors are well-balanced, but it’s the interplay between the sweet and the savory that really stands out. You won’t find the complexity of rare or ultra-aged bourbons here, but you will find an enjoyable and satisfying pour that can hold its own against some of the best bottles on the market.
The Finish: A Warm Embrace of Vanilla and Caramel
If there’s one part of this bourbon that truly shines, it’s the finish. Long, lingering, and full of warmth, the finish on Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is a masterclass in how to end on a high note.
After the mid-palate’s toasted nuts and oak fade, you’re left with a comforting embrace of vanilla and caramel. It’s like the bourbon is pulling you in for a hug, urging you to take another sip just to relive that moment. The vanilla is rich and creamy, while the caramel adds a buttery sweetness that sticks around in the best way possible.
For the finish, Russell’s Reserve gets a soaring 82. It’s the kind of finish that makes you want to pour yourself another glass, not because you need to, but because you want to experience it all over again. It’s warm without being overly hot, and it leaves you feeling completely satisfied.
Value: A High-Quality Pour at a Great Price
One of the most surprising things about Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is the price. At around $60, you’re getting an incredible value for a single-barrel bourbon of this quality. In a market where prices for premium bourbon are constantly rising, this bottle stands out as a great deal.
For value, it scores an 80 out of 100. This is the kind of bourbon you can easily recommend to both beginners and seasoned bourbon drinkers alike. It offers complexity and depth at a price point that won’t break the bank, and in a world of increasingly expensive bottles, that’s something to celebrate.
Overall Verdict: The Best Bottle of the Year (So Far)
When you add it all up, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel earns an overall score of 79. It’s an excellent bourbon that excels in taste, balance, and value. While it doesn’t reach the rarefied heights of limited-edition or ultra-aged bourbons, it offers a rich, satisfying experience that’s well worth your time and money.
Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned connoisseur, I recommend this bottle to everyone. It’s bold without being overpowering, flavorful without being overly complex, and affordable without compromising on quality. If you’re lucky enough to find this bottle on the shelf, don’t hesitate—grab it.
This might just be the best bourbon you’ll have all year, too.
