Russell's Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery - Wild Turkey
MSRP - $150 / Secondary Market - $225
Proof - 114.8
Age - 13 Years
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Tasting Notes
Nose – Initially, I immediately picked up rich notes of licorice and tobacco. After allowing it to rest, the nose evolved beautifully, with hints of brown sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of citrus, adding layers of complexity and depth to the experience.
Palate – This pour is really well-balanced. At first, I had a bit of trouble pinpointing the flavors, but after a few sips, I discovered a great mix of sweet, savory, and tart notes, reminding me of a caramelized green apple crumble that @kati.mac makes.
Finish – The finish is incredibly smooth, with a strong presence of oak complemented by a peppery kick that lingers, leaving a warm and satisfying sensation that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Overall – This is a fantastic bottle of bourbon. It has a complex nose, a silky mouthfeel, and a perfect balance of flavors. I can see why folks go crazy for it. I just hope I can snag a backup bottle before this one runs dry!
Food Pairing - Apple Crumble
Nav’s Personal Thoughts – Russell’s 13, first released in 2021, has consistently ranked as a top ten pour every year, and I finally understood why when I was lucky enough to grab a bottle last year. From the first sip, it’s clear why it’s considered one of the best releases annually. This is a complex pour with its evolving nose and perfectly balanced palate that marries sweet, savory, and spicy notes. The smooth finish, with its oak and peppery kick, makes it one of those bourbons that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a true standout in the world of bourbon. For a food pairing, I’d recommend caramelized apple crumble. The sweet and tart notes in the crumble would complement the bourbon’s caramelized apple and brown sugar notes beautifully.
