Wild Turkey releases Russell’s Reserve 2002

Gruppo Campari-owned Wild Turkey has launched Russell’s Reserve 2002, the brand’s first non-chill-filtered barrel-proof Bourbon.

Russell’s Reserve 2002 was created by master distiller Eddie Russell

Created by master distiller Eddie Russell, the new expression follows the launch of Russell’s Reserve 1998.

Eddie Russell searched more than half-a-million barrels to create the whiskey and settled on 25 barrels, which had been laid to rest for 15 years.

Bottled at 57.3% abv, Russell’s Reserve 2002 has a nose of stone fruits, pear, citrus, oak and a hint of white pepper. It features hints of grapefruit, white chocolate and gentle spice with a “long and malty” finish.

“When I tasted 2002 for the first time, I knew I couldn’t mess with it. It was exactly what I had envisioned, and I wanted Bourbon connoisseurs and collectors to experience the liquid in all its glory,” said Eddie Russell.

“The sweet spot for our Bourbon is normally eight to 12 years, but every now and then you find a barrel that defies expectations.”

Earlier this year, Eddie Russell, along with his father Jimmy Russell, launched Master’s Keep Decades to celebrate Jimmy Russell’s 64-year legacy. The father and son team have shared the role of master distiller since 2015.

Russell’s Reserve 2002 is available in “extremely” limited quantities in select US states for an RRP of US$249.99.