Russell’s Reserve has announced the release of its Camp Nelson D bourbon, the fifth addition to its coveted Single Rickhouse Collection. Designed to demonstrate the power of warehouse “terroir,” the annual limited-edition series aimed squarely at bourbon collectors explores how microclimates shape aging spirits—even when using the exact same mash bill and distillation process.
The 2026 bottle is said to deliver the collection’s most surprising flavor profile to date, featuring a pronounced rye-like spice born from a distinctive, high-altitude aging environment. Built in 1946, Camp Nelson D sits at the highest elevation of any Kentucky warehouse featured in the collection so far. Perched on the western edge of the distillery’s property, its exposed position subjects barrels to constant air currents. These unique environmental factors accelerated barrel interaction, driving a boldly flavorful transformation inside the oak.
For Master Distiller Eddie Russell, who marks 45 years with Wild Turkey Distilling Co. this year, selecting this rarefied Kentucky bourbon holds some serious personal significance. “Camp Nelson D was the first rickhouse I ever worked in when I started as a union employee 45 years ago, so coming back to it for this release meant a lot,” said Russell in a launch statement. “We set out looking for those sweeter notes we know and love, but the rye spice notes immediately stood out. Tasted blind, you’d bet it was a rye.”
To finish final blend, Russell and his team took an unconventional approach. While lower levels are typically bypassed, the team selected barrels spanning floors one, three, four, five, and six. Earthy undertones from the first floor successfully balanced out fruit-forward sweetness from the upper levels, creating an extraordinarily complex whiskey, according to the brand.
Non-chill filtered and bottled at a hearty 120.8 proof, the bourbon “opens with rich aromas of baked apples, vanilla, and warm baking spices.” The tasting experience further unfolds with “layered flavors of stone fruit, clove, cinnamon, and crusty rye bread,” finishing with “a lingering burst of black pepper and charred oak.”
Russell’s Reserve Single Rickhouse 2026 is available now at select U.S. retailers and the Wild Turkey Distillery Visitor Center for a suggested retail price of $300 per bottle.