Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Rye lovers treat Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Rye as a dependable spice bomb with manners.
Each barrel comes from Wild Turkey’s 51% rye mash, aged in No. 4 alligator char, and bottled non-chill-filtered at 104 proof. It’s Kentucky straight rye that shows plenty of muscle without losing the easy charm people expect from the Russell family.

The aroma steps out bright and confident with lemon peel, vanilla, spicy oak, and a rustle of orange oil.
Give it a moment and caramel, ginger snap, herbal tea, and a light tobacco thread slowly drift up from the glass.

On the palate, the rye lands silky yet assertive, folding caramel, vanilla cream, and citrus peel into black pepper, ginger, and toasted oak.

The finish carries pear candy, mint, lingering peppercorn, and gentle tobacco over warming oak, making the next sip feel almost inevitable. 

Neat works beautifully, though a splash of water teases out extra citrus and softens the edges for slower, longer sessions.

Nose: Lemon peel, vanilla, and spicy oak lead, backed by orange zest, ginger snap, and a brush of herbal tea.
Subtle caramel, tobacco leaf, and floral rye spice add depth without turning heavy.

Palate: Caramel, vanilla cream, and lemon pepper arrive first, wrapped around sweet oak and an easy, confident wave of rye spice.
Hints of honey, citrus candy, mint, and soft tobacco weave through the mid-palate, keeping each sip lively and layered.

Finish: Pear drops, vanilla cookies, and peppercorn drive the finish, joined by lingering citrus zest and gentle oak tannin.
A cool minty echo hangs on the tongue, inviting another measured sip.

This single-barrel rye loves honest, flavorful food more than fussy plating.

Try it with chargrilled pork chops, pepper-rubbed steak, or smoked sausages where the rye spice can bounce off char, fat, and salt.

Sharp cheddar, aged Gouda, or Alpine cheeses echo the caramel and oak while adding a welcome savory bite.

For dessert, think pecan pie, spice cake, or dark chocolate with candied orange peel to mirror its citrus, vanilla, and peppery warmth.