Russell's Reserve 6 Year Old Straight Rye Whiskey has been aged for 6 years, which is around the average age for American whiskeys. The age of this spirit refers to the youngest component of the blend, there may be parts that are much older. American whiskeys like this Russell's Reserve 6 Year Old Straight Rye Whiskey must be made from a grain mash and be distilled at 90% ABV or less under US law. Rye whiskey is a spicy and fruity spirit that is produced from at least 51% rye. Rye used to be the most popular variant of Whiskey prior to the Prohibition and has recently seen a resurgence in popularity.