Russell’s 10 is an authentic and classic bourbon. As someone who enjoys scotch as well, I appreciate the oakiness, dry finish and age. I am happy to have any of these 3 bottles in my cabinet.
Great to hear your thoughts on this Russell's . Others have shared similar insights. Clearly a favorite of many. I still would reach for Rarebreed, but these are all solid Bourbon.
I purchased a bottle of RR10 and was highly disappointed. I got a spice, burnt brown sugar note then a very heavy oak note then the flavor just disappears. I, however, do want to try RR SiB.
Great review, now bring on the warmer weather! Agree w/ the final verdict in the same order and now need to ask, what other brands/distillers are there in this price range that can deliver 3 or more bourbons at this level of quality/value? Sincerely, bourbon noob as of 2021. Cheers!
I have to say, Wild Turkey releases excellent bourbon for this price range. Truely hard to beat. In my area Knob Creek 9yr is in this price range. I also enjoy Old Grand Dad BiB. Both from Jim Beam, though I'm not a big fan of bourbons with their name on them. Odd.
My buddy and I, in college, used to use 101 as our go-to bump to pair with Grain Belt or whatever the cheap beer on tap was. Didn't realize until later in life what it was as a sipper. A must to keep in stock. Having Russel's 10 for the first time tonight, and I must be one of the palates that's into it. I had the same perception of classic bourbon flavors at first, wasn't blown away, until I let it sit on my palate and I got an unmistakable blast of smoky state fair sweet corn sans butter. Clear as day. I don't fawn over that at the fair, but it was really doing something for me in the bourbon. I'll keep the journey for my go-back-to dram, which is Elijah Craig Small Batch at the moment, but it was a pretty good find with that nice smoky sweet corn surprise. Cheers!
I finally tried Russell's Reserve 10... and I was Sooooo disappointed... ok it's not bad, but I would drink WT81 over it any day. 101 was way better than RR-10 Rare Breed is the winner here... Lately I've found RR-10 occasionally for $40 and Rare Breed For $39 in Calgary... WT 101 is much more expensive at $45+ and when on sale WT 81 is $25 I found RR-10 is weaker tasting... more tannins yes but less complexity... Rare Breed and even 101 have more sweetness and variation... I love to have Rare Breed straight (maybe with a dribble of water if a new bottle) and warmed close to body temp... I got Rare Breed to taste like it had Crème brûlée with a touch of cinnamon and maybe that tannin aftertaste you get from grapes, I get the bitterness, but I find it closer to that burnt sugar bitterness rather than a herbal bitter.. sweet but has that kink to it. Rare Breed is the winner, followed by WT 101... I'd totally take WT81 over RR-10 though I think a blend of age gives the bourbon a nicer taste.. if it is just 10 year, it's less complex and more tannins... Rare Breed is my go-to now I just wish I could get 101 for less than $40... but I'll take Rare Breed for $39 as long as I can get it Side note... I wasn't a huge fan of Knob Creek 9.. it was ok and would take it over RR-10 but wasn't impressed... but.. I noticed after a couple drams of Rare Breed, I went back to Knob Creek and loved it... I'm not sure what Rare Breed does to the taste buds but it made me a fan of Knob Creek 9
Love all three I love Russell's Reserve 10 year its great for a 90 proof great for a easy sipper. WT 101 great daily sipper. Rare Breed is a great end of week whiskey 😀🦃🥃🥃🥃
Great review was finishing my 101 watching the video trying to decide going forward if I want to keep it or my Russell’s and you for sure helped confirm what I was thinking 👍
You're right on Jon... yet my take is different. As an old bourbon drinker I remember when a lot of bourbon's were older and drier. Don't try to wrap your head around the differences. Rare Breed is a blast of energy that gives the young and old tastes of bourbon. 101 is just so unmatched in balance and subtle power...the definition of bourbon to me. Russell's is a treat for a quiet evening with a cigar. As a cognac lover I love the dry burnt wood and leather notes. You're right it is missing the bright fruit notes of the other two. Personally I mix Russell's 50/50 with the standard 81 proof for my table bourbon. I love Wild Turkey in every form. Sorry to ramble. 😁
Never apologize for sharing your journey. I love to hear your experience. It sounds like we are similar in what we find in these bottles, but where we are or how we are enjoying them is slightly different. I will confess, it has been a long, long time since I have paired a cigar with Bourbon. Might need to think of changing that! Enjoy the weekend!
Great minds must think alike, Jon! I was sipping on WT Rare Breed Rye and WT Russell's Rye when this video came out! I love WT products but I agree that the RR 10-year bourbon trails behind most of their other products - especially as far as relative value goes. I haven't picked up the 10-year in several months as I've had some amazing luck finding Eagle Rare here in Texas. Interestingly, I don't have any of the usual WT bourbon open as I've been trying to kill other bottles so thanks for the nudge as I need another WT101 opened on the bar!
Can’t disagree with anything you said here! I had Russel’s Reserve for the first time tonight. However, the 101 has been a bit thin for me lately. The Russel’s, while it is more dry oak, it also has more depth of flavor. The two (Russel’s and 101) mixed half and half was quite excellent. The 101 gives it more life and a bit more proof, while the Russel’s gives some more depth of flavor. I prefer them mixed rather than either by themselves!
Next time I pick up a Russel's, I will try the mix as you suggest. A few people have encourages something similar, so clearly worth trying! Thanks for sharing.
Not fair. WT 101 always wins lol. It’s a whiskey that just tastes great and priced at an amazing price. RR10 was one of my first aged stated bottles that really impressed me. But there’s so much to taste still and haven’t purchased it again. Cheers Jon 🥃
Can you get Russell's single barrel up where you are? I find those are generally miles ahead of the regular 10-year. EDIT: I should, however, mention that the price of the single barrel is around double that of the standard 10-year.
I have all of these bourbons, and it's a pretty accurate review. In defense of Russell's Reserve 10 year old, it's a 90 proof (45 abv) sipping whiskey for casual drinkers who think Rare Breed is too high proof for pleasant sipping. Russell's Reserve isn't a good choice for cocktails because of its lower proof. Wild Turkey 101 is a better choice for cocktails (or, if 101 is too potent for the particular drink, Wild Turkey 81 was designed for cocktails), while Rare Breed is probably more for the aficionado.
What a fantastic line up! I wonder what impact it would have on the flavor if the bottled the Russel's at a higher proof. I shared some rare breed with my brother in law this past weekend and he's hooked!
Great timing! I was searching RUclips for a comparison of all three and was thrilled yours was the first (actually... maybe the only?) result! EDIT: Just finished the video. I have to agree on the Russell's. I was searching for videos that would tell me how great Russell's is and what I might be missing... but compared to the other two, I also prefer it the least--however, I also agree it is GOOD but not great. Is it, perhaps, that Turkey is best at 6 - 8 years? I've never had any Turkey older or younger. I'm not a huge Turkey fan and tend to lean more towards the brown-forman lineup. That being said, 101 sure is growing on me for the price...
Great review Jon. I enjoy all three, but for me...WT101 is clear winner. Similar to yourself, Russell's falls flat and at the price point of Rare Breed, I feel 101 is the better buy!
A few people have also said they really enjoy it, so it might be worth finding a pour or a sample some day, just to see where your palate sits. Thanks for dropping in!
Great to hear you talking Turkey 🦃 Bees love the stuff. They come around all the time if I'm drinking bourbon outside during daylight. Guess I'm picking up that 101 this coming week. Will let you know what I think once I get into it. I seem to have a lot of bottles I've yet to open at the moment. What's up with that!?!? 🙄 Cheers Jon...🥃🥃 Marian 🇨🇦
I have not had Rare Breed, but I definitely prefer the Wild Turkey 101 over the Russell's 10. I find I still like the Russell's but its got more of a char/oak bite.
Have all 3 and like all 3 with 101 always in the bar. I find the RR 10 does not get better after it is 1/2 full, loses the leather tobacco notes around 1/3 bottle for some reason. The non chill filtered RR Single Barrels are better for me although hard to come by these days. Why they chill filter Rare Breed and 101 is beyond me.
Anyone see that thing fly across the screen between 7:05 & 7:07?
Cool. What was that!
Agreed 101%
Cool!!
Russell’s 10 is an authentic and classic bourbon. As someone who enjoys scotch as well, I appreciate the oakiness, dry finish and age. I am happy to have any of these 3 bottles in my cabinet.
Great to hear your thoughts on this Russell's . Others have shared similar insights. Clearly a favorite of many. I still would reach for Rarebreed, but these are all solid Bourbon.
I have all three and I like them all. Great review WN thank you
Thanks!
@@WhiskyNeighbour Anytime. I have learned a lot from you thank you
price aside, which is better russels 10 or wt101
Personal taste as always, but for me, WT101
Russell 10 is better than 101 hands down
Glad you enjoy it! Cheers!
Has to be a palate thing, because I find RR10 to be one of the best bottlings on the market under $35. To each their own. Cheers! 🦉🥃
Absolutely, and many have shared how much they enjoy RR10. Thanks for sharing!
Neighbor Jon -Really appreciate the review and comparisons!!! Cheers!
Thanks!
Very like Wild Turkey. Cheers
Yep!
I purchased a bottle of RR10 and was highly disappointed. I got a spice, burnt brown sugar note then a very heavy oak note then the flavor just disappears. I, however, do want to try RR SiB.
I have had samples of single barrells that were fantastic. So, worth chasing down.
Try mixing russel 10 with Rare Breed with the ratio of 2 to 1 or 3 to 1, you will get a reasonable proof with much less oakiness.
Thanks for the tip!
Great review, now bring on the warmer weather! Agree w/ the final verdict in the same order and now need to ask, what other brands/distillers are there in this price range that can deliver 3 or more bourbons at this level of quality/value? Sincerely, bourbon noob as of 2021. Cheers!
I have to say, Wild Turkey releases excellent bourbon for this price range. Truely hard to beat. In my area Knob Creek 9yr is in this price range. I also enjoy Old Grand Dad BiB. Both from Jim Beam, though I'm not a big fan of bourbons with their name on them. Odd.
My buddy and I, in college, used to use 101 as our go-to bump to pair with Grain Belt or whatever the cheap beer on tap was. Didn't realize until later in life what it was as a sipper. A must to keep in stock. Having Russel's 10 for the first time tonight, and I must be one of the palates that's into it. I had the same perception of classic bourbon flavors at first, wasn't blown away, until I let it sit on my palate and I got an unmistakable blast of smoky state fair sweet corn sans butter. Clear as day. I don't fawn over that at the fair, but it was really doing something for me in the bourbon. I'll keep the journey for my go-back-to dram, which is Elijah Craig Small Batch at the moment, but it was a pretty good find with that nice smoky sweet corn surprise. Cheers!
Beautiful description, both taste and memory. Thanks for sharing!
I finally tried Russell's Reserve 10... and I was Sooooo disappointed... ok it's not bad, but I would drink WT81 over it any day. 101 was way better than RR-10 Rare Breed is the winner here... Lately I've found RR-10 occasionally for $40 and Rare Breed For $39 in Calgary... WT 101 is much more expensive at $45+ and when on sale WT 81 is $25
I found RR-10 is weaker tasting... more tannins yes but less complexity... Rare Breed and even 101 have more sweetness and variation... I love to have Rare Breed straight (maybe with a dribble of water if a new bottle) and warmed close to body temp... I got Rare Breed to taste like it had Crème brûlée with a touch of cinnamon and maybe that tannin aftertaste you get from grapes, I get the bitterness, but I find it closer to that burnt sugar bitterness rather than a herbal bitter.. sweet but has that kink to it. Rare Breed is the winner, followed by WT 101... I'd totally take WT81 over RR-10 though I think a blend of age gives the bourbon a nicer taste.. if it is just 10 year, it's less complex and more tannins... Rare Breed is my go-to now I just wish I could get 101 for less than $40... but I'll take Rare Breed for $39 as long as I can get it
Side note... I wasn't a huge fan of Knob Creek 9.. it was ok and would take it over RR-10 but wasn't impressed... but.. I noticed after a couple drams of Rare Breed, I went back to Knob Creek and loved it... I'm not sure what Rare Breed does to the taste buds but it made me a fan of Knob Creek 9
Glad we agree, and for the price, bringing home Rare Breed every time!! Interesting side note, and very cool.
The Rare Breed is my favourite Bourbon, but in regards to an affordable go to, the 101 is king for me. Great vid Jon.
Thanks. These are all good, but certainly agree 101 is amazing
Love the Rare Breed! Haven’t tried the Russell’s or 101 😳
Grab that 101!!
Certainly agree, pick up that 101!
Well I guess I better hit up the LCBO!
Thanks 👍🏻
@@dramgoodwhisky Hands down the best value in bourbon imho
Love all three I love Russell's Reserve 10 year its great for a 90 proof great for a easy sipper. WT 101 great daily sipper. Rare Breed is a great end of week whiskey 😀🦃🥃🥃🥃
Well said, and I certainly agree with a good Turkey line up!
Great review was finishing my 101 watching the video trying to decide going forward if I want to keep it or my Russell’s and you for sure helped confirm what I was thinking 👍
Glad I could help!
I agree with you 100% just purchased my first bottle and it's too light for me.
Thanks for sharing your experience with it. I like a little more spice I get from WT 101
I like sweet caramel bourbons, so, oaky or leathery Smokey is not my thing.. good review.
Thanks for sharing. My palate shifts from time to time, but I tend to like spicy bourbon!
You're right on Jon... yet my take is different. As an old bourbon drinker I remember when a lot of bourbon's were older and drier. Don't try to wrap your head around the differences. Rare Breed is a blast of energy that gives the young and old tastes of bourbon. 101 is just so unmatched in balance and subtle power...the definition of bourbon to me. Russell's is a treat for a quiet evening with a cigar. As a cognac lover I love the dry burnt wood and leather notes. You're right it is missing the bright fruit notes of the other two. Personally I mix Russell's 50/50 with the standard 81 proof for my table bourbon. I love Wild Turkey in every form. Sorry to ramble. 😁
Never apologize for sharing your journey. I love to hear your experience. It sounds like we are similar in what we find in these bottles, but where we are or how we are enjoying them is slightly different. I will confess, it has been a long, long time since I have paired a cigar with Bourbon. Might need to think of changing that! Enjoy the weekend!
Great minds must think alike, Jon! I was sipping on WT Rare Breed Rye and WT Russell's Rye when this video came out!
I love WT products but I agree that the RR 10-year bourbon trails behind most of their other products - especially as far as relative value goes. I haven't picked up the 10-year in several months as I've had some amazing luck finding Eagle Rare here in Texas.
Interestingly, I don't have any of the usual WT bourbon open as I've been trying to kill other bottles so thanks for the nudge as I need another WT101 opened on the bar!
Glad we have had similar experiences, and yes, you need WT101 on the shelf! Cheers my friend.
Can’t disagree with anything you said here! I had Russel’s Reserve for the first time tonight. However, the 101 has been a bit thin for me lately. The Russel’s, while it is more dry oak, it also has more depth of flavor. The two (Russel’s and 101) mixed half and half was quite excellent. The 101 gives it more life and a bit more proof, while the Russel’s gives some more depth of flavor. I prefer them mixed rather than either by themselves!
Next time I pick up a Russel's, I will try the mix as you suggest. A few people have encourages something similar, so clearly worth trying! Thanks for sharing.
Not fair. WT 101 always wins lol. It’s a whiskey that just tastes great and priced at an amazing price. RR10 was one of my first aged stated bottles that really impressed me. But there’s so much to taste still and haven’t purchased it again. Cheers Jon 🥃
I know, I need to stop drinking that WT101. Ruins the party! Glad you enjoy RR10. It’s good for me, but not as good as I had hoped.
Can you get Russell's single barrel up where you are? I find those are generally miles ahead of the regular 10-year.
EDIT: I should, however, mention that the price of the single barrel is around double that of the standard 10-year.
There is one up here, and yes, twice the price. I want to believe it will be that much better, but hard after a couple of these only OK. Thanks
Hey Jon! I completely agree with your thoughts. The 10yr just has too much tannic oak for me. Love me some 101, RB and RR SiB!
Glad we agree!
Really want to try the Russell's single barrel but for some reason can't find it here in BC!
Hopefully a bottle shows up!
You nailed it Jon. Rare Breed and 101 are always on my shelf. The 10 year I haven't gone back to. Just not worth the price for me. Cheers!
Thanks!!
I have all of these bourbons, and it's a pretty accurate review. In defense of Russell's Reserve 10 year old, it's a 90 proof (45 abv) sipping whiskey for casual drinkers who think Rare Breed is too high proof for pleasant sipping. Russell's Reserve isn't a good choice for cocktails because of its lower proof. Wild Turkey 101 is a better choice for cocktails (or, if 101 is too potent for the particular drink, Wild Turkey 81 was designed for cocktails), while Rare Breed is probably more for the aficionado.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on these affordable and available bourbons! Cheers!
What a fantastic line up!
I wonder what impact it would have on the flavor if the bottled the Russel's at a higher proof.
I shared some rare breed with my brother in law this past weekend and he's hooked!
I hear their single barrels are much better!
Try mixing russel 10 with Rare Breed with the ratio of 2 to 1 or 3 to 1, you got higher proof with much less oakiness
Love the wild turkey rare breed fantastic prices. It is cheaper than Russell reserve10 ..I would give rare breed a 90
Awesome Bourbon! Glad you can find it for a good price too. Cheers!
Great timing! I was searching RUclips for a comparison of all three and was thrilled yours was the first (actually... maybe the only?) result!
EDIT: Just finished the video. I have to agree on the Russell's. I was searching for videos that would tell me how great Russell's is and what I might be missing... but compared to the other two, I also prefer it the least--however, I also agree it is GOOD but not great. Is it, perhaps, that Turkey is best at 6 - 8 years? I've never had any Turkey older or younger. I'm not a huge Turkey fan and tend to lean more towards the brown-forman lineup. That being said, 101 sure is growing on me for the price...
Glad I could help! As always, just one guys thoughts, but it might help with the comparison part. Cheers!
Great review Jon. I enjoy all three, but for me...WT101 is clear winner. Similar to yourself, Russell's falls flat and at the price point of Rare Breed, I feel 101 is the better buy!
It is just hard to argue with WT101 for flavour and price. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I've seen a bunch of reviews, that said the same about the RR, as you did. I have passed on buying it.
A few people have also said they really enjoy it, so it might be worth finding a pour or a sample some day, just to see where your palate sits. Thanks for dropping in!
Great to hear you talking Turkey 🦃
Bees love the stuff. They come around all the time if I'm drinking bourbon outside during daylight.
Guess I'm picking up that 101 this coming week. Will let you know what I think once I get into it. I seem to have a lot of bottles I've yet to open at the moment. What's up with that!?!? 🙄
Cheers Jon...🥃🥃
Marian 🇨🇦
Clearly I continue to encourage that purchase. WT101 for the win, and yes the bees or wasps can't leave me alone! Cheers!
I have not had Rare Breed, but I definitely prefer the Wild Turkey 101 over the Russell's 10. I find I still like the Russell's but its got more of a char/oak bite.
Agree with the notes on Russell’s, thanks for sharing!
I'm always a huge fan of the 101. Haven't tried the other two yet.
Each of these are worth trying, but I would encourage bringing home Rarebreed after WT101 just for the experience!
Been wanting to try RR, but WT101 is really good. One day I’ll try Rare Breed. Cheers!
It's always a good idea to try new releases, but I agree, WT101 is just so good!
Have all 3 and like all 3 with 101 always in the bar. I find the RR 10 does not get better after it is 1/2 full, loses the leather tobacco notes around 1/3 bottle for some reason. The non chill filtered RR Single Barrels are better for me although hard to come by these days. Why they chill filter Rare Breed and 101 is beyond me.
I have yet to bring home a RR single barrel. Part of that is my general reaction to RR 10yr. Maybe so should anyway. Thanks for your thoughts!