Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME Laser Code Batch)

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey | 45% ABV (90 Proof) | 750 mL | Kentucky, USA | 10 Years Aged | Small Batch

Process & Profile

Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon is crafted at Wild Turkey Distilling Co. using the distillery’s long-standing Kentucky straight bourbon mash bill and barrel-aging traditions. The whiskey is aged for a full 10 years in new charred American oak, selected for its balance of seasoned oak, vanilla, cherry, and spice.

The LL/ME laser-code bottling, produced in May 2024, stands out dramatically from typical batches. This specific run quickly became a sensation among bourbon enthusiasts after widespread reports of richer cherry character, deeper oak intensity, and a profile that tastes more mature than the standard 10-year release. Many bourbon drinkers believe that some barrels used in this batch were originally intended for older or premium Russell’s expressions—potentially even barrels close to the profile of Russell’s Reserve 15—resulting in a noticeably elevated flavor experience. The LL/ME code has since become a highly hunted marker in the bourbon world.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Dark cherry, vanilla bean, toasted oak, caramel, antique leather, and warm baking spice.

Palate: Caramelized sugar, stewed cherry, seasoned oak, dark chocolate, gentle tobacco, and layered spice.

Finish: Medium-long with cherry cola sweetness, mature leather, oak tannin, and lingering spice.

What Makes It Special

• The LL/ME May 2024 bottling has become a bourbon-collector phenomenon

• Many enthusiasts believe barrels with more advanced maturity or premium selection characteristics were blended into this batch

• Delivers noticeably richer cherry, oak, and spice compared to typical Russell’s 10 Year releases

• True 10-year age statement at an approachable 90 proof

• One of the most famous “laser-code hunts” in recent bourbon history

• Crafted by the iconic Jimmy and Eddie Russell at Wild Turkey

How to Enjoy

Enjoy Russell’s Reserve 10 Year LL/ME neat in a Glencairn or rocks glass to highlight its deeper cherry and oak-driven profile. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the leather, vanilla, and spice notes to open fully. A single large ice cube can bring forward softer chocolate and fruit undertones without muting the complexity. This batch pairs exceptionally well with dark chocolate, roasted pecans, smoked meats, or a premium cigar. Because of its cult following and limited availability, it’s an ideal pour for special occasions or slow, thoughtful sipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME)?
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME) is a May 2024 laser-code batch of the 10-year expression that gained significant attention for its elevated flavor compared to standard releases.

2. What is the alcohol content of Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME)?
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME) is bottled at 45% ABV (90 proof).

3. Where is Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME) produced?
It is produced by Wild Turkey Distilling Co. in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

4. What makes the LL/ME batch of Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon special?
The LL/ME batch is prized for its richer cherry notes, deeper oak complexity, and speculation that older or premium-leaning barrels were blended into the run, making it a standout among recent bottlings.

5. Where can I buy Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME)?
You can purchase Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon (LL/ME) directly from The Barrel Tap, a trusted online retailer for premium spirits.