Russell's Reserve 2002 15 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey 750mL

Russell's Reserve 2002 15 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey

Crafted to honor a combined 101 years of distilling excellence between Jimmy and Eddie Russell, Russell’s Reserve 2002 is the first barrel-proof, non-chill filtered release in the Russell’s Reserve legacy. This 15-year-old bourbon pays tribute to Wild Turkey’s renowned Camp Nelson rickhouses, where all 25 barrels in this expression were aged to perfection. A true collector’s bottle with only 3,640 produced and distributed across just 14 U.S. states.

Process & Profile

Distillery: Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Mashbill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley
Age Statement: 15 Years
Proof: 114.6 (57.3% ABV)
Filtration: Non-chill filtered
Release Date: July 2018
Total Bottles Released: 3,640
Aging Location: Camp Nelson Rickhouses

Tasting Notes

Nose:
Bold and fragrant with rich honeyed oak, caramel, and vanilla. Accents of seasoned wood, cigar box, and a touch of rye spice offer depth without overpowering the senses. Ethanol is minimal despite the high proof, allowing the complexity to shine.

Palate:
Opens with a burst of rye spice before unfolding into layers of honey, burnt wood, and vanilla. Deep notes of seasoned oak, tobacco leaf, and caramel develop mid-palate, accented by hints of leather and char. The flavor is powerful, yet balanced—a Wild Turkey hallmark.

Finish:
Long and warming, with cinnamon, lingering rye spice, and sweet notes of vanilla and honey. Oak and spice dominate the backend, with a slightly dry close that underscores its age and intensity.

What Makes It Special?

• First Barrel-Proof Russell’s Reserve Release – The 2002 edition marked a bold step for the brand, showcasing its bourbon in unfiltered, high-proof form.

• 15 Years in Camp Nelson – All 25 barrels matured in Wild Turkey’s prized Camp Nelson rickhouses, delivering elevated depth and character.

• Rare and Limited – Only 3,640 bottles released across 14 U.S. states.

• Father & Son Tribute – Honors the combined 101 years of Jimmy and Eddie Russell’s legendary careers.

How to Enjoy Russell’s Reserve 2002

• Neat – Best experienced in a Glencairn glass to explore its complexity.

• With a Drop of Water – Softens the spice and unveils additional layers of vanilla, cigar box, and seasoned wood.

• Special Occasions – Ideal for collectors and Wild Turkey purists looking to taste the brand’s history in its boldest form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What makes Russell’s Reserve 2002 different from the 1998 edition?
While both are aged 15 years, the 2002 is barrel-proof and non-chill filtered, offering a raw, intensified experience. It also saw a larger bottle count and broader distribution.

2. What proof is Russell’s Reserve 2002?
It’s bottled at 114.6 proof (57.3% ABV), delivering a punchy, full-bodied character.

3. Where was it aged?
All barrels were matured at Wild Turkey’s offsite Camp Nelson rickhouses, known for their unique microclimates.

4. Is Russell’s Reserve 2002 still available?
Due to its limited run, this bourbon is now a rare find, typically available only on the secondary market.

5. Does the non-chill filtration matter?
Yes—non-chill filtration retains more oils and esters, giving the whiskey a fuller mouthfeel and richer flavor.