After a tasting event earlier this week, I decided to compare & contrast New Riff bib with Russell's Reserve. To my surprise, I have never reviewed RR10. The Price is similar as is the mash bill. But the similarity pretty much ends there. In re-nosing NR bib I kept coming up with an element I couldn't define. RR10 is buttered caramel corn forward on the nose with a bit of citrusy green apple and nutmeg in the background. Nicely complex. NR led with the funky thing and caramel apple in the background. Ultimately, I realized the funkiness is akin to band aids or adhesive tape. It was more in the background three nights ago. RR excels on the palate. Rich vanilla/caramel in the lead, and some butter too. A layer down there is green apple and citrus. Deeper down I get mom's leftover pie crust with cinnamon. A lot going on. I love the depth. The finish evolves and strengthens with sweet citrus. While I like NR bib bourbon, it lacks depth. 4 years vs 10 years explains that. The verdict is a reinforcement of why I find youngish craft products a mixed bag. Giving the devil his due OR produced Balboa Rye and Winter Whisky and I absolutely loved those.