Russell's Reserve Private Barrel #20-0939

Details around this specific barrel that was selected by Wine & Beyond: Distilled: 09-19-11 Dumped: 11-05-20 Bottled: 11-30-20 Warehouse: E Floor: 4 Having been a fan of many things WT and enjoying all the RR products I’ve had so far I had to snag a private barrel as we just don’t see as many of those up here. Nose is quite lively with all the bourbon vibes you know and love. Citrus and cream up front, then layers of toffee, brown sugar and corn down the middle. Way in the back you can just start to pick out some char and spice, but the ethanol is present enough to try and keep you from digging. Palate doesn’t deviate from the nose, but there is a shake up in the order. Baking spice hits on first sip, not aggressively but enough to get your attention. Then it’s all about the grain and the barrel with rich, oily burnt corn and wooden staves monopolizing everything. If you like sweetness in your bourbon this isn’t for you. Finish is long, with way more heat slowly building from the chest back up the throat then 110 proof ought to. More bitter tannin and a hint of char hang on for quite some time. Overall this a great bourbon. It’s dark, rich, oily and has enough charred wood to make Makers 46 pretty jealous. A no nonsense whiskey that I’m happy to have in cabinet.