Russell's Reserve 9.5 Year Private Barrel Selection Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey The Prime Barrel Pick #98

Picture this: a group of whiskey enthusiasts from The Prime Barrel, led by Bruce Russell, stepping into the hallowed halls of Tyrone A, the oldest rickhouse on the Wild Turkey campus. Built in 1894, this historic rickhouse is a testament to over 130 years of distillery tradition and craftsmanship. The moment you enter, the rich aromas of aging whiskey envelop you, blending with a palpable sense of history.

The Quest for the Perfect Barrel:

As The Prime Barrel members explored the rickhouse, Bruce Russell presented six meticulously selected barrels for their tasting journey. The excitement was tangible as they began their quest to find the perfect barrel. Each barrel had its unique story, aged to perfection in the iconic Tyrone A rickhouse.

The first two barrels set an incredibly high bar with their exquisite nose, palate, and finish. Barrel 5 also stood out, making the selection process even more challenging. Ultimately, Barrels 1 and 5 were chosen for a final round of tasting and comparison. After much deliberation, Barrel 1 emerged as the standout choice.

The Chosen Barrel:

Filled on September 30, 2014, this exceptional 110-proof barrel aged for 9.5 years on the 4th floor of the Tyrone K Brickhouse. This location's high elevation and excellent air circulation imbued the whiskey with unparalleled depth and character. The result is a bourbon that captures the essence of Wild Turkey’s heritage and The Prime Barrel’s discerning palate.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Sweet vanilla greets you warmly.
• Palate: The journey begins with sweet caramel, transitioning smoothly to smoky oak and rich butterscotch.
• Finish: A long, satisfying finish that lingers on the tongue with smoky oak and dry notes, creating a delightful experience.

A Collector's Treasure:

This Russell's Reserve Private Barrel is not just a bottle of whiskey; it’s a piece of history, a testament to the rich legacy of Wild Turkey and the meticulous selection process of The Prime Barrel members. With one of the highest-scoring palate and finish profiles, it is a prized addition to any collection.