Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel
Hey, bourbon enthusiasts, casual sippers, and accidental alcohol aficionados! Today, we're taking a wild ride on the flavor express with Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon. Buckle up because this isn't your grandma's sweet tea – unless Grandma has a secret moonshine operation in her basement.
Let's start with the packaging because, let's face it, we're all suckers for a pretty bottle. Russell's Reserve Single Barrel comes in a bottle that looks like it means business. It's got that "I know I'm good, and I want you to know it too" vibe. The bourbon says, "I might be single, but I'm ready to mingle with your taste buds."
Sniff Test
I approached my first sniff like a bloodhound on a scent trail, and oh boy, did I hit the jackpot! The aroma hits you like a warm blanket on a cold winter's night – comforting, familiar, and slightly dangerous if you have too much.
First Sip
Like the first time you ride a rollercoaster, the initial sip is an adrenaline rush. It's a boozy adventure, like taking your taste buds on a safari through the wild plains of Kentucky. There's a hint of vanilla, a dash of spice, and a subtle undertone of "I just found my new favorite drink" with a creamy texture swishing around.
Midway Through the Glass
As you continue to explore, you start noticing the complexities. It's like peeling an onion – you'll cry tears of joy instead of pain. The flavors evolve, dancing on your tongue like a tipsy ballerina. Now, you're not just sipping bourbon but engaging in a sophisticated tango with a glass. We started to pick up hints of licorice and toffee.
The bottom of the Glass
We both had at least a glass of the Widow Jane and were starting to finish the Russell’s. This is where things get interesting. Suddenly, you're convinced you're a bourbon connoisseur. You start using words like "oaky" and "caramel notes" with the confidence of a seasoned sommelier. Your father-in-law is impressed, even if they have no idea what you're talking about. We got a complete sense of what this Single Barrel had to offer. It was bold but apologetic and gave you everything you wanted in a neat bourbon.
The Morning After
Don't worry, folks, we were mostly responsible. We still talked about the bourbons and that turkey, with Russels near the top. We had a lingering sense of satisfaction. You might question some life choices, but hey, that's the price you pay for a night of bourbon-induced revelry.
In conclusion, Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon is like a carnival for your taste buds. It's a journey of flavors, an adventure in a bottle, and a rollercoaster ride for your senses, but not overdoing it. So, if you're looking to spice up your whiskey game, give it a shot. Just be prepared to keep this on your shelf for the next visit from your father-in-law. Cheers to bourbon, adventure, and the questionable decisions that follow! 🥃
The Details:
Proof: 110 • Mashbill: 71% Corn • 13% Rye • 12% Malted Barley • Aged: 9-12yrs •Price: $60
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 4 • Palate: 5 • Finish: 4 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 4 • Overall: 4
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 