Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 10:14 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Russell’s Reserve 10 vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Russell’s Reserve 10 vs Wild Turkey Rare Breed: Comparison
Russell’s Reserve 10: A sweet and spicy bourbon, reminiscent of holiday pies with cinnamon, butterscotch, and a charred oak finish. Ideal for adding water, it’s a comforting sip for any day.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed: Bold, uncut bourbon offering creamy butterscotch, vanilla, and a warming oak char finish. Best enjoyed on the rocks or in cocktails, it stands out for its full flavor.
Verdict: Both Russell’s Reserve 10 and Wild Turkey Rare Breed offer distinct experiences; the former for its Thanksgiving pie flavors and the latter for its robust, full-bodied character. Each shines in its own right, catering to different moments of whiskey enjoyment, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best of Russell’s Reserve Bourbon
Sweet & Spicy: Unveiling Russell’s Reserve 10
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Wild Turkey 101
Craving a Thanksgiving pie in a glass? Look no further than Russell’s Reserve 10! This hand-picked gem from Wild Turkey masters Jimmy and Eddie Russell boasts a unique flavor profile and a touch of holiday magic.
Sweet & Spicy Nose:
Expect subtle sweetness with delicate hints of fine spice and charred oak on the nose. Think cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and vanilla, all wrapped in a smooth, buttery hug.
Thanksgiving in a Sip:
The palate explodes with a delightful blend of those spices, reminiscent of a warm holiday pie. Maple syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla add sweetness, balanced by the signature Wild Turkey oak char.
Oak-Forward Finish:
The finish is rich and pleasing, lingering with notes of maple, brown sugar, vanilla, and a pronounced oak influence due to extended aging in heavily charred casks.
Beyond the Bottle:
Aged for 10 years, Russell’s 10 is a Double Gold Medal winner, earning high scores from industry experts. It’s a solid, satisfying whiskey, perfect for relaxed moments.
The Verdict:
While not an “impress your friends” choice, Russell’s 10 shines as a delicious everyday sip. Its sweet, spicy profile and oaky finish make it ideal for leisurely afternoons and holiday evenings.
Bonus Fact:
⏳ This hand-picked gem uses Wild Turkey’s classic mash bill (75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley) and is aged in deeply charred oak casks, giving it its pronounced oak character.
Uncut & Unapologetic: Unveiling Wild Turkey’s Rare Breed
- Alcohol content: 116 proof (58% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit
Craving bold, full-flavored bourbon without the watered-down experience? Look no further than Wild Turkey’s Rare Breed! This uncut, unfiltered gem delivers pure whiskey satisfaction, minus the dilution.
Honey & Oak on the Nose:
Expect a rich blend of honey, cinnamon, and charred oak on the nose, with a subtle hint of ethanol that whispers its high proof.
Creamy & Warm on the Palate:
First sip greets you with a creamy texture and pleasing warmth. Butterscotch, brown sugar, vanilla, and oak dance on your tongue, balanced and harmonious.
Lingering & Rewarding Finish:
The medium to long finish leaves a warming sensation, showcasing vanilla, aged leather, and Wild Turkey’s signature charred oak.
Beyond the Bottle:
Despite its high proof (116!), Rare Breed’s sweetness and smoothness shine through. It’s a delight to sip, earning a Gold medal at the New York International Spirits Competition.
The Verdict:
This value-packed bourbon surpasses many pricier options. With its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and bold character, Rare Breed represents the best of Wild Turkey.
Bonus Fact:
⏳ Rare Breed is a blend of whiskeys aged 6-8 years and 12 years, using a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% barley.
Enjoy Responsibly!
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Bourbon | $40 |
| Wild Turkey Rare Breed | $55 |