2024 Russell’s Reserve 15yr 117.8°

 

Nose:  Sweetness that resonates of nectar with mild back spice that swirls around the centered sweetness.  The heat is tempered yet full-bodied, like a gust of wind, with a slight leafiness towards the back.  As one noses into it deeper, the oak slowly shows itself with a subtle touch of funk towards the end.  

 

Palate:  An immediate sweetness that is more reminiscent in William Larue Weller than commonly seen in Russell’s – that bomb of dense brown sugar and caramel.  Some oak and age complement the sweetness immensely well, making for a full-bodied, dense mid-palate.  The heat accompanies it towards the back of the mouth – causing a tingling of the back jaw.  Elements of slight grassiness come with a long finish as the sweetness returns to remind us that it is still there.  A slight element of bitterness comes but a welcoming complement to it versus that of something undesirable.  It has so much body that it makes you think again on the second sip about everything you experienced – this is augmented by an even longer finish than before. 

 

Verdict:  Beautiful brownish molasses color that makes it look much beyond 15 years.  Such an enjoyable ride of flavor and body...  The best Wild Turkey product in recent memory. 

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