Description
Russell’s Reserve Straight Rye 6 Yr
The nose opens up with lighter scents of hay, vanilla, and a hint of oak. A swirl of the glass reveals an underlying theme of sweetness predominantly in the form of pink bubble gum. Overall light in delivery, it won’t wow you, but it’s a suitable way to open up the sip.
The sweetness from the nose carries over in the form of that light bubble gum along with a sweet caramel chew with a vanilla coating. This is joined with a current of subtle rye spice that is underlying the entire time. It’s a pleasant collection of flavors, however, the lower proof seems to hold back what could be a bolder and more full-flavored sip.
A small flare-up of heat starts things off in the form of rye spice and green peppercorn. These are combined with a hint of leather and vanilla, along with lightly aged oak that lingers for a considerable amount of time. The burst of heat at the start of the finish brings forth the most life the sip has to offer and is a nice way to round things out.
