Japan has long been Wild Turkey's favourite second home. When American drinkers were chasing vodka in the 1980s and 90s, Japanese importers were buying up the Russells' oldest, proudest bourbons and putting them on shelves in Tokyo and Osaka. The 13 Year Distiller's Reserve is one of those bottles — a Japan exclusive, bottled at 91 proof (45.5% ABV), and quietly one of the best-kept secrets in the Wild Turkey catalogue.
Thirteen years in a Kentucky rickhouse is a long time for bourbon, especially Wild Turkey bourbon, which enters the barrel at an unusually low proof by industry standards. That low entry proof means the spirit pulls more flavour, more colour and more wood sugars per year in oak — which is why a 13-year Turkey tastes like a 15 or 16-year-old from anyone else.
The nose is unmistakably Russell: deep caramel, dark wildflower honey, dusty oak and dried apricot. A slow pour reveals leather-bound books and a faint curl of pipe smoke.
On the palate it is silken. Vanilla custard arrives first, then burnt orange peel, cinnamon stick and milk chocolate. The rye in the mash bill peeks out mid-palate as a gentle clove note before the oak takes over. Unlike many 13-year bourbons this one never tips into bitterness — Eddie Russell's blending hand is everywhere.
The finish is long, graceful, and warm. Toffee, cocoa, old oak and a soft pepper glow. If you find a bottle in Tokyo, don't hesitate.
