Maker: Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, USA (Campari)
Age: 6 y/o
Style: Kentucky Rye
Proof: 90 (45% ABV)
Michigan State Minimum: $40
Note: Two person review!
J: Josh
A: Friend of the Blog, Amy
Appearance
J: Pale copper, with spotty legs.
A: Light, bright gold with hard-to-find legs.
Nose
J: Oak, peanut butter, alcohol, barrel char, bubble gum. Changes a lot in the glass.
A: Mild rye aroma, hint of grass and mint.
On the palate
J: Medium bodied and sweet. Oak, fruity hard candy, burn, butterscotch.
A: Light bodied with soft mouth feel. Very sweet but with kick.
Finish
J: Leather, cumin, coriander and a lingering sweetness.
A: Rye much more present in the finish than on the palate.
Parting Words
A: Having met Jimmy Russell in person, I am always happy to sample his wares. It’s not a rye that hits you over the head with rye. I like it.
J: I’ll try to elaborate on Amy’s minimalist remarks. Russell’s Reserve Rye was one of the first ryes I really loved. Since then I’ve fallen in love with Rittenhouse and had affairs with Sazerac and Willet and my horizons have broadened. Still, I think this is a good solid rye whiskey, albeit overpriced. Although it was never one of my favorites, now that Wild Turkey Rye 101 proof has been debased into the 81 proof swill, Russell’s Reserve is the only label under which one can get a drinkable rye whiskey from Wild Turkey. As such and because it tastes good, Russell’s Reserve Rye is recommended.
Sipology 