The return of Russells Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon in 2025 marks a triumphant moment for seasoned enthusiasts and collectors alike. First introduced in June 2021, this limited release has grown into a cult favorite, renowned for its unapologetically rich flavor profile and dedication to craftsmanship. Now back and better than ever, the new bottling clocks in at an assertive 123.8 proof—its highest yet—delivering a bolder, deeper sip that remains true to its heritage while pushing boundaries.
Master Distiller Eddie Russell puts it best: “This release of Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Old is special to me not only because it celebrates our legacy, but because it represents a new chapter in the evolution of this bourbon.” That evolution includes a commitment to bottling each batch at barrel proof, complete with seasonal markings and unique proofs for each release—a welcome nod to transparency and collectibility.
Russells Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon: Flavor That Runs Deep
If you’ve ever questioned what 13 years in a Wild Turkey rickhouse tastes like, the answer lies in every sip of Russells Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon. The 2025 expression opens with aromatic waves of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar, immediately followed by subtle layers of cherry, clove, and nutmeg—all tied together with the distillery’s signature dusty funk.
On the palate, this high-proof bourbon surprises with a complex dance of sweet cola, dark molasses, and jammy dark fruit. As it opens up, notes of fruit cobbler and buttercream add nuance and approachability to an otherwise bold spirit. The finish is where this bourbon flexes its maturity: long, lingering, and layered with aged oak, smoky char, and a peppery kick that whispers “one more pour.”
According to Russell, “This one carries the signature profile the 13 is known for, but with enhanced cola notes that bring a new depth of flavor.” It’s a refreshing evolution that respects the classic while embracing the new.
As a limited, high-demand release, the 2025 bottling of Russells Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon won’t be easy to score—but that’s exactly what makes it so sought after. Priced at a suggested $200 for a 750ML bottle, the bourbon will be made available this summer in select retail outlets, at the Wild Turkey Distilling Co. Visitor’s Center, and through limited online drops.
Four years after its debut, Russells Reserve 13 Year Old Bourbon continues to impress not just for what’s in the glass, but for what it represents. It’s a showcase of generational knowledge, patient maturation, and a no-shortcuts approach that’s increasingly rare in today’s whiskey landscape.
There’s no flashy marketing campaign, no celebrity endorsement—just a damn good bourbon that stands on the shoulders of tradition. With its unapologetic proof, rich flavor layers, and commitment to quality, the 2025 release is another reminder that Russell’s Reserve is setting the tone for what premium American bourbon should be.
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