Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon

Outstanding

It's that time again. That magical time of year when all the "Best Whiskey of the Year" lists come out. I've been searching around and found that most of these lists consist of highly aged Scotch and limited release or allocated Bourbon, and while I'm sure these drams are delicious, the fact remains that most of us will likely never taste most of these, so over the next five days, I present to you this longhorn's humble top 5 whiskies of 2020. Most of us could agree that this was not our best year. However, all the time spent at home resulted in expanded imbibing of our favorite brown beverage. This is the criteria for my list: (1) The whiskey has to be readily available on store shelves. No special releases. This means the most excellent Wild Turkey Masters Keep expressions I tried and rated this year are out, though you should feel confident to buy on sight. (2) Every dram on my list is $80 or less. Everyone should be able to taste great whiskey, and yes, I realize my definition of "great" might be different than others, but that's the fun of what we all do here, and (3) I had to have tasted it in 2020. None of the whiskies on my list were released this year, but this year is when I finally got around to them. I was ready to give up on bourbon at the end of last year. After several years of sampling, it seemed like they all more or less tasted the same. I was also put off by the notion of paying over $40 for a bottle of whiskey made in this country, since I could get some scotch, old duties and all, for $60 or less. Then the tariffs hit, and suddenly Talisker 10 cost $90. What's a longhorn to do? Well, I regrouped and gave our native spirit another go, and wow I'm glad I did. Ever the perennial and consistent favorite, Wild Turkey comes out swinging again. While I adored this year's Masters Keep, and I polished off a bottle of Rare Breed early in the year, this bottle was the standout star for me. Just a perfectly balanced dram of spicy brown sugar, rich toffee, and salted caramel. I haven't read a bad review anywhere of this dram. Even the "off" bottles seem to be consistently above average. Whatever it costs near you, it's worth it. It's about $50 consistently where I'm at. No special gimmicks. No major promotions. Just damn good bourbon, and that's why Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon is my #1 whiskey of 2020. Thanks to all here in the Distiller community that made this year more bearable with your tastings, your insights, and the community. Being able to share our mutual notes and interests was one of the highlights of my year, and I feel that my palate (and waistline!) have broadened as a result of having known all of y'all. Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to everyone here, and cheers to more great whiskey in 2021!

Went down quick. Strong stuff but super tasty

Little spicy, residual slight burn at the back of the throat that lasts but is welcome and delicious