Russell’s Reserve has launched the spring 2026 edition of its 13 Year Old Bourbon alongside an original short-form documentary to celebrate master distiller Eddie Russell’s 45 years at Wild Turkey Distilling Co. in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. The limited release, priced at $200 per 750ml bottle, features a commemorative label honoring Russell’s career and is available this month in limited quantities online, at the distillery visitor’s center, and at select retailers.
Eddie Russell’s tenure at Wild Turkey began in 1981 as a summer job. That temporary role became a lifelong career spanning more than four decades.
Russell has since been inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame and has mastered nearly every aspect of bourbon production at the distillery. He originally created Russell’s Reserve to honor his father, Jimmy Russell’s, 45th anniversary at Wild Turkey.
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READ THE STORY“Russell’s Reserve has always been deeply personal to me. It started as a way to honor my dad and everything he taught me,” said master distiller Eddie Russell. “Now, the opportunity to celebrate my own 45 years with a new release of the 13 Year Old — a bourbon that really showcases how I approach the craft — and to see my story shared through this film, is incredibly special.”
The documentary, titled His Own Way: The Story of Eddie Russell, traces the master distiller’s journey from his earliest days at the distillery to his lasting influence on bourbon-making today. The film will debut for one day only on June 23, 2026, at select Alamo Drafthouse theaters nationwide, followed by a screening of Field of Dreams.
This year’s 13 Year Old is bottled at barrel proof — 60.6% ABV (121.2 proof). The batch includes special barrel selections made by Eddie Russell, including an 18-year-old barrel pulled during the documentary’s filming.
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“My dad has given his entire life to this craft, and to see him reach 45 years is so special,” said associate master blender Bruce Russell, Eddie’s son. “While we were filming, Dad actually pulled an 18 year old barrel and we tasted it together — of course, it was exceptional. That barrel ended up in this year’s 13 Year Old release.”
Bruce Russell added: “It was just one of those moments that felt so true to who Dad is and what he does best. To have that captured on camera, and that barrel in this year’s release, makes it all even more meaningful.”
Official tasting notes from the brand describe aromas of vanilla and oak transitioning to brown sugar, coffee, and a distinct orange peel note. The taste profile features bright cherry and citrus fruit notes followed by nutmeg, allspice, and sweet cola. The finish is medium-long with caramel, toffee, and hints of oak tannin.
Russell’s Reserve is part of the portfolio of Campari Group, the Milan-headquartered spirits company whose brands also include Wild Turkey, Aperol, Campari, and Espolòn Tequila. Campari Group trades in over 190 countries and operates 24 production sites worldwide.
