Russell's Reserve 13-Year Barrel Proof Bourbon

About the product: Russell's Reserve 13-Year-Old Barrel Proof (Batch 6 / Spring 2025 Release) represents a bold evolution for this highly coveted line, breaking tradition with a historic, record-high bottling proof. Masterfully selected from a curated blend of 160 barrels—primarily sourced from the famed Camp Nelson aging warehouses—this specific batch marks the line's return from a one-year hiatus. It moves away from the static 114.8 proof of its predecessors to deliver a "2.0 reimagining" of the brand's signature aged profile.

Tasting Notes: 

Aroma: Opens with an aggressive, effervescent proof punch. Letting the glass rest reveals heavy vanilla buttercream frosting, deep brown sugar, toffee, and toasted walnut, layered with Wild Turkey's iconic "dusty rickhouse funk" and light baking spices like clove and nutmeg. 

Taste: Viscous, oily, and intensely coating. It leads with an upfront burst of dark cherry cola, rich crème brûlée, molasses, and vanilla custard. The massive 123.8 proof carries an energetic heat that amplifies bold spice layers—cinnamon, chili powder, and black pepper—alongside antique charred oak, leather, and dark chocolate. 

Finish: Extremely long and warming. As the rich sweetness of honey and toffee begins to fade, it leaves behind smoldering notes of barrel char, clove, ginger root, tobacco, and a lingering, drying oak spice