When you see Eddie Russell’s name on a Russell’s Reserve Private Barrel pick, you know you’re in for something special. If you’ve been following us on Instagram or know anything about us, you know that we’re huge fans of Russell’s Reserve and Wild Turkey products. After spotting this barrel pick at a local store here in Tampa, I couldn’t wait to try it. This 10-year, 110-proof Turkey beauty delivers a rich, classic bourbon profile with just enough complexity to keep things interesting. It’s got leather, cherry cola, and dark chocolate working in harmony, with baking spices and white pepper giving it a subtle kick.

At its core, this is a refined, well-balanced pour that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just makes the wheel damn good.

Nose

Right off the bat, white pepper gives this bourbon a lively spice, but it quickly softens into a sweet cream and salted almond note. As it opens up, leather and dark chocolate bring in a rich, mature quality, and then—out of nowhere—cherry cola shows up to tie it all together. This nose is layered and inviting, with just enough spice to keep you on your toes.

Palate

If you ever wanted a bourbon that tastes like cherry cola spiked with dark chocolate and leather, congratulations—you’ve found it. The first sip brings sweetness and richness, but as it develops, clove and baking spice creep in, adding warmth and complexity.

A few drops of water transform the palate, dialing back the spice and bringing out salty almond, creamy vanilla, and an almost silky mouthfeel. It’s an evolution in a glass, shifting between dark and sweet, bold and smooth.

Finish

The transition from palate to finish is seamless—dark chocolate gives way to toffee, baking spice, and a lingering peppery warmth. It’s a medium-long finish that keeps those rich, dessert-like flavors rolling but doesn’t overstay its welcome.

Ratings

  • Dylan: 7.7
  • Scott: 7.9
  • Michael: 7.2