When it comes to whiskey that stands out in a crowded market, few things beat the thrill of snagging a limited-edition bottle straight from the source. Wild Turkey has long been a go-to for guys who appreciate the real deal—bold flavors, solid craftsmanship, and that sense of history in every sip. Now, they're rolling out two exclusive rye selections from their Private Barrel program, both hand-picked by Master Distiller Bruce Russell back in September 2025. These aren't your everyday pours; they're rare finds distilled in 2018 and aged right at the Tyrone campus, capturing the essence of what makes Wild Turkey a legend among American spirits.
The Private Barrel program at Wild Turkey is all about getting personal with the whiskey-making process. It's not mass-produced stuff—each barrel is selected for its unique character, influenced by everything from the rickhouse location to the way the seasons play out during aging. Bruce Russell, the man behind these choices, knows the ins and outs of the distillery like the back of his hand. He's spent years honing his craft, ensuring that only the best expressions make it to the bottle. For these 2018 rye selections, he zeroed in on barrels that highlight the signature rye spice Wild Turkey is known for, but with twists that make each one distinct. And with only limited numbers available, these are the kinds of bottles that could become conversation starters at your next backyard gathering or quiet evening unwind.
Image credit: Wild Turkey
Let's dive into the first one: Private Selection Rye #1, Bruce's pick from September 2025. This one started its journey in October 2018, distilled and then tucked away in Rickhouse D at the Tyrone campus. Over the years, it developed into a robust expression that's all about that classic rye kick. If you're the type who likes a whiskey with some backbone, this is your match. The aroma hits you right away with baking spice, pepper, honey, and a touch of hay—think of it like walking into a warm barn on a crisp fall day, with those earthy notes pulling you in.
On the taste, it opens up with vanilla leading the charge, followed by cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. It's layered, almost like biting into a spiced cookie that's been aged to perfection. The rye spice shines through without overwhelming, making it versatile for sipping straight or mixing into a solid Manhattan. Then comes the finish: sweet and spicy, with oaky undertones, clove, and honey lingering just long enough to make you reach for another pour. This isn't a lightweight—it's got that hearty profile that pairs well with a good steak dinner or sharing stories around a fire pit. Aged in Rickhouse D, which is known for its consistent conditions, this selection reached its peak flavor, embodying the tough, reliable spirit of American rye.
Image credit: Wild Turkey
Not far behind is Private Selection Rye #2, another Bruce Russell gem from September 2025. Distilled just a month later in November 2018, this one matured in Rickhouse A at the same Tyrone campus. What sets it apart is its more approachable vibe, described as having a "Sweet and Easy" finish that's perfect for those times when you want something smooth without sacrificing depth. Rickhouse A brings a different dynamic to the aging process—maybe it's the airflow or the wood interaction, but it results in a whiskey that's inviting from the first sniff.
The aroma here is a sweeter affair: vanilla, powdered sugar, caramel, and a hint of pepper to keep things interesting. It's like the scent of fresh-baked goods mixed with a subtle spice rack edge, drawing you in without any harshness. Taste-wise, it delivers caramel up front, blended with sweet oak, cinnamon, and even a glazed donut note that adds a fun, nostalgic twist. Imagine that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness balanced by just enough rye character to remind you it's a serious whiskey. The finish seals the deal—sweet and easy, with honey, caramel candy, and baking spice fading gently, leaving you satisfied rather than punched in the face. This one's ideal for easing into an evening, maybe with a cigar on the porch or as a base for an old-fashioned that doesn't overpower the other ingredients.
Both of these ryes come from the heart of Wild Turkey's operations at the Tyrone campus, where tradition meets precision. The distillery has been churning out quality spirits for generations, and the Private Barrel program lets enthusiasts like you get a piece of that legacy. These 2018 selections were chosen for their peak maturity, showcasing how time in the barrel transforms raw distillate into something memorable. Rickhouse D and Rickhouse A each impart their own influence—D for that sturdy, spice-forward build, and A for a softer, more rounded touch. It's details like these that make collecting these bottles rewarding, especially when you know they're online-exclusive and won't stick around long.
Speaking of getting your hands on them, these are available through licensed retailers on the ReserveBar.com network. Keep in mind, Campari and Wild Turkey Distilling Co. aren't the ones handling the sales or shipping—they're not licensed beverage alcohol retailers. Everything goes through independent partners, so you're dealing with pros who know the ropes. And as always, the reminder to drink responsibly is key; these are premium pours meant to be enjoyed in moderation, savoring the craft rather than rushing through.
What makes these two ryes stand out in a sea of options? It's the exclusivity factor. With strictly limited numbers, they're not flooding the shelves. For the guy who's built up a home bar over the years, adding these to the collection feels like scoring a vintage find. Private Selection Rye #1 brings that bold, spicy edge for when you want to feel the rye's full force, while #2 offers a sweeter, more laid-back alternative that's still packed with flavor. Together, they represent the range of what Wild Turkey can do with their rye recipe—spicy and robust on one end, sweet and approachable on the other.
In the world of American whiskey, where trends come and go, sticking with proven names like Wild Turkey pays off. These 2018 selections, hand-picked by Bruce Russell, are a nod to the distillery's commitment to quality. Whether you're new to rye or have been chasing rare barrels for decades, these bottles deliver on taste, story, and scarcity. If you're looking to elevate your next pour, tracking down one—or both—of these could be the move that turns a regular night into something worth remembering. Just remember, once they're gone, they're gone, so acting fast is part of the game.
