Brand
Russell'S
Russell'S (commercially known as Russell's Reserve) is an American whiskey brand — in particular bourbon and rye — created and overseen by the Russell family (Jimmy and Eddie Russell) and produced at the Wild Turkey Distilling Co. facilities in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The brand is part of the portfolio managed globally by Campari Group.
- Lawrenceburg · Kentucky · USA
- 1 product
The story
Russell's Reserve was born as a line tied to the work and selections of master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, historic figures of Wild Turkey Distilling Co. The brand identifies age-stated expressions (for example 10 years) and single-barrel/limited selections connected to the Russell family's tradition at the Lawrenceburg, Kentucky distillery.
Production philosophy
Strong emphasis on barrel selection and the experience of the master distillers: Russell's Reserve expressions seek balance, extended maturation and the classic character of Kentucky bourbon/rye, highlighting the Russell family's work and the use of new American oak with high char.
Territory
Lawrenceburg, Kentucky (USA) — production and aging carried out at the Wild Turkey Distilling Co. facilities, with water sourced from the Kentucky River area as indicated in official sources.
Awards and recognition
Among recognitions reported for some expressions: Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021; Gold Spirits Business American Whisky Masters 2022; Gold TAG Awards 2022; 94 points USC 2022 (noted on official product sheets).
Production method
Distillates are produced and aged at the Wild Turkey Distilling Co.; according to official information, spirits are placed in new American oak barrels with char No.4 ("alligator" char). Some expressions are single-barrel selections or blends of barrels chosen by the Russells; the line includes products bottled around 45% ABV (90 proof for the 10 Year).
Distillation
Continuous distillation and pot still (technical details reported on product sheets); in general production involves distillation and barrel filling at a relatively low proof compared with some other producers.
Ageing
Aging in new American oak barrels; use of char No.4 (alligator) for many expressions; age statements (e.g. 10 years) present on some bottles.
Characteristics
- Type
- Brand
- City
- Lawrenceburg
- Categories
- bourbon
- Kentucky straight bourbon
- rye whiskey
- small-batch bourbon
- American whiskey
- Raw materials
- water
- corn (maize)
- rye
- malted barley
- Casks and ageing vessels
- new American oak barrels
- char No.4 (alligator)
- Representative products
- Russell's Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon (70 cl)
- Russell's Reserve 6 Year Old Rye
- Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon
What makes it distinctive
- Brand closely associated with master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, historic figures of Wild Turkey.
- Notable age-stated expressions (e.g. 10 years) and single-barrel selections.
- Production and aging at Wild Turkey Distilling Co., Lawrenceburg (KY).
- Part of the portfolio managed internationally by Campari Group.