Russell's Reserve 1998 15 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey 750mL

Russell's Reserve 1998 Bourbon

A true collector’s gem, Russell’s Reserve 1998 is one of the rarest releases in the Wild Turkey legacy—just 2,070 bottles were ever produced. Distilled to commemorate a milestone for bourbon legend Jimmy Russell, this extraordinary expression instead marked a turning point in Eddie Russell’s stewardship, capturing the bourbon at its peak before time could alter its profile.

Process & Profile

Distillation: Crafted using Wild Turkey's traditional methods, distilled in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky using a time-honored sour mash process.

Mashbill: 75% Corn, 13% Rye, 12% Malted Barley

Maturation: Aged for 15 years in American white oak barrels. Due to accelerated evaporation, only 23 barrels were deemed worthy—each one carefully monitored and dumped into stainless steel to halt aging at peak maturity.

Release Date: August 2015
Batch Size: Only 2,070 bottles
Proof: 102.2 (51.1% ABV)

Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich waves of vanilla bean, cherry cola, aged leather, and seasoned oak with hints of dried tobacco and dark brown sugar.

Palate: Full-bodied and deep, revealing toffee, charred oak, baking spice, orange peel, and roasted pecan. Luxurious and balanced with mature oak undertones.

Finish: Long and warming, with dry oak tannin, peppered caramel, dark chocolate, and a wisp of toasted coconut.

What Makes It Special?

• Ultra-Rare Release – Only 2,070 bottles produced from 23 barrels, the smallest batch under Jimmy and Eddie Russell’s oversight.

• 15-Year Age Statement – Locked in at peak maturity, offering a rare glimpse into long-aged Wild Turkey bourbon.

• Evaporation Impact – The whiskey experienced unusually high angel’s share loss, intensifying its complexity and flavor concentration.

• Historic Significance – Originally intended to commemorate a milestone for Jimmy Russell, instead it showcases Eddie’s masterful decision-making.

How to Enjoy Russell’s Reserve 1998

• Neat – Best appreciated in a Glencairn glass to capture its deep complexity and rare oak-driven character.

• Special Moments Only – This isn’t an everyday pour. Save it for life’s milestones, celebrations, or curated tastings with fellow enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why was only a small amount of Russell’s Reserve 1998 released?
The batch was originally intended for a celebratory release, but due to rapid evaporation and maturation, only 23 barrels remained viable, yielding just 2,070 bottles.

2. Is Russell’s Reserve 1998 still available?
This release is highly sought after on the secondary market. As a 2015 release, it is now a rare find for collectors and connoisseurs.

3. How does this compare to regular Russell’s Reserve 10 Year?
Russell’s 1998 offers deeper, more concentrated oak and spice notes, thanks to its 15-year aging and limited barrel selection. It’s a more mature, nuanced bourbon.

4. What is the proof of Russell’s Reserve 1998?
It’s bottled at 102.2 proof (51.1% ABV), offering bold flavor without overwhelming heat.

5. What’s the significance of the 1998 vintage?
That’s the year this whiskey was distilled. The barrels aged until late 2014, when they were moved to a holding tank to preserve peak flavor.