I feel bad giving such a low score to such a highly regarded bourbon because it makes me think I am missing something or that I am just uncultured; but I did not enjoy this bourbon. It was brought to my attention by someone who is more experienced in bourbon than I, but I found it to be a bit more acetone than I was expecting. I taste more alcohol than anything else. The nose and palette are overwhelmingly alcohol and spice. At first taste I thought I had a rye. but the finish and shortly after that is very pleasant. Caramel or brown sugar, I can't tell which , but a warm rich flavor is present after you swallow. Prior to that, it's just spice and burn in my opinion. Coming from the Four Roses Single Barrel to this one, the Russell just falls so very short.