Veteran Rye Review: Russell’s Reserve 6 Year Rye

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History –

As a father and son company the Wild Turkey Distillery has made a name across the country as a trusted source for bourbon lovers. With their Wild Turkey Brands up to the Russell’s Reserve Brands these bourbons live up the hype. Particularly the Wild Turkey 101 offering has always been something to be excited and proud of. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year is another bourbon that also impresses as it is as some say comparable to Buffalo Traces Eagle Rare. Nonetheless this bourbon has a history of success from their master distillers. As stated on the website: “Our home was founded by Jimmy Russell, known by many as “the master distiller’s master distiller,” a legend of bourbon. The devotion and artistry for fine bourbon runs in the Russell family, and Master Distiller Eddie Russell is no different. Eddie, Jimmy’s son, joined the family legacy, and for 30 years he learned everything Jimmy had to teach: every tradition, every technique, every touch of craft. 

When the time came to spread his wings, Eddie created Russell’s Reserve® as a tribute to his father’s legacy and their shared passion for bourbon, but filled with original ideas, showing Jimmy that he had his own way of crafting bourbon.” – Russelsreserve.com

This drink is well known for making the Sazerac Cocktail which has been deemed as “America’s First Cocktail”. You can find the direct recipe from ‘The Sazerac House’ website. Let’s dig in and see what makes this rye so special.

Value – This value sits right on par for what it is.

Appearance – Gold color. Classic and rustic looking bottle that is unmistakably Russell’s Reserve.

Nose – Roasted nuts, cinnamon and sweet caramel and vanilla almost like if you were smelling pink bubble gum. Very light.

Palate – Light pepper, cigar box smell, fresh cut wood and a syrupy feel to it. Very light.

Finish – Very smooth that is unlike many other bourbons that I have tasted in the past. It puts off a nice lingering heat on the tongue and gums to remind you that it was there. As it fizzles away it leaves a soft toffee flavor which is especially satisfying.

Summary – Rounding this bourbon up I have to say that as a Rye it that I was excited to try it leaves you without a lasting impression. The website specifically pushes you to really focus on mixing this bourbon to a Manhattan. I am a huge fan of Manhattans but more so I like bourbon neat and with all of its smoothness and unique nose I don’t know if this will be a repeat bourbon for me. I’ll leave you with this.

Uniqueness – 1-10 – 2

Appearance- 1-10 – 5

Nose- 1-20 – 12

Palate- 1-20 – 9

Finish- 1-20 – 11

Value- 1-20 – 17

5.6

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