Russell’s Reserve Private Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review.

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 Russell’s Reserve Private Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Review.

    

    
    Russell’s Reserve has long been one of those dependable names that consistently delivers solid Kentucky straight bourbon without chasing hype. Between their approachable 10 Year, reliable rye, and well-structured core lineup, they’ve earned a permanent place on many shelves. This private barrel pick, discovered during a stop at West Clay Wine and Spirits, immediately stood out as something special, especially after learning it came from the highly regarded Camp Nelson warehouses.

    What made this bottle even more exciting was the blind selection process behind it. The winning barrel was chosen from multiple Russell’s Reserve options, and after tasting it on the spot, both my wife and I agreed it was an exceptional pick. After letting it rest on my shelf for a few weeks, it felt like the right time to dig in and see how it truly performed.


For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/P6af210yvfg.

Age Statement: 8 Years.

ABV: 55%.

Mash bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley.

Area of Distillation: Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Appearance: Oaky with a golden hue.


On the nose:
    The nose opens with a beautiful light oiliness that immediately signals depth. Herbal spice, cinnamon stick, and well-matured oak lead the way, followed by vanilla, caramel, and a touch of brown sugar. There’s a gentle corn sweetness and a subtle red apple note that keeps everything balanced. What truly stands out is an unexpected soft maltiness, almost reminiscent of a single malt barley note, something I’ve rarely encountered in a Russell’s Reserve bottle.


Taste:
   The palate coats beautifully with warmth and texture. Herbal spice and baking spices blend with red fruit, stone fruit, and a touch of orange peel. That same malt-driven note carries through, adding an extra layer of complexity. Wood sugars and caramel sweetness sit alongside fruit skins and spice, creating a profile that feels richer and more mature than its age suggests. This drinks closer to nine or even ten years, rather than just eight.


Finish:
   The finish is long and satisfying, bringing oak spice, caramel drizzle, and a surprising nutty quality reminiscent of candied walnuts. Light char and wood sugars linger alongside fruit peels and spice, rounding things out in a way that feels both familiar and distinctly different from standard Russell’s Reserve releases.


Final Thoughts: 
    This private barrel pick showcases exactly why single barrels can be so exciting. While an older age statement would likely push this into truly exceptional territory, the current profile delivers impressive depth, balance, and uniqueness. At a price point hovering around $90–95, it remains a strong value for a high-proof, well-selected single barrel from a top-tier distillery.


Rating: -A (Amazing).

Cost: $94.99 for 750ml.

For the full video review visit the link here: https://youtu.be/P6af210yvfg.

Social platforms to follow me: https://linktr.ee/thelastcallyt

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