Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Proof: 92
Age: NAS
Utah Price: $74.99 / 750ml
Product Availability: Allocated Product
Blanton’s Bourbon has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with the heritage of American whiskey. Blanton’s Bourbon is produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. The distillery has a long and storied history, dating back to 1775 when it was first established by pioneers who discovered a fresh water spring near the Kentucky River, a prime location for whiskey production.
Blanton’s Bourbon is named after Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a significant figure in the history of the distillery. Colonel Blanton was known for his attention to detail and his personal involvement in the production process. He had a preference for selecting barrels from Warehouse H, a metal-clad warehouse that allowed for a unique aging process due to its rapid temperature changes. It was in this warehouse that Colonel Blanton would personally select barrels to be bottled and served to his friends and family.
The concept of Blanton’s Bourbon as a single-barrel product was developed after Colonel Blanton’s era, but it was heavily inspired by his practices. In 1984, Elmer T. Lee, who had been mentored by Colonel Blanton and was the master distiller at the time, introduced Blanton’s as the world’s first single-barrel bourbon. This was a revolutionary idea, as most bourbons at the time were blends of barrels from various locations within a warehouse. The decision to bottle bourbon from a single barrel, selected from the same Warehouse H that Colonel Blanton favored, was a tribute to his legacy. Each bottle of Blanton’s was intended to capture the unique characteristics of that specific barrel, creating a product with distinct and individual flavor profiles.
This barrel of Blanton’s Original Single Barrel was dumped on 4/11/2024. It was stored in Warehouse H on Rick No. 33. The registered Bottle No. is 93.
Tasting Notes:
Nose
On the nose, Blanton’s offers a rich and inviting aroma. There’s a noticeable sweetness upfront, with strong notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey. As it opens up, hints of dried fruit, particularly raisins and apricots, emerge, along with a subtle spiciness, possibly cinnamon or nutmeg. The oak influence is present but not overpowering, providing a balanced, well-rounded bouquet.
Palate
Blanton’s delivers a smooth and creamy mouthfeel that makes it approachable for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and newcomers. The initial taste is sweet, with caramel, vanilla, and toffee dominating the profile. This sweetness is complemented by more complex flavors like roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and a touch of citrus zest. The oakiness becomes more pronounced on the palate, contributing to a pleasant depth and balance, while a light peppery spice adds an intriguing complexity.
Finish
The finish of Blanton’s is long, warm, and satisfying. It leaves a lasting impression of sweet vanilla and caramel, with a gentle spice that lingers on the tongue. The oak character is more evident in the finish, rounding out the bourbon with a slightly dry and tannic note that invites another sip.
Overall Impressions:
Blanton’s Bourbon is a superb example of a single-barrel bourbon done right. It offers a harmonious balance of sweetness, spice, and oak that is both complex and accessible. The quality and consistency of each bottle are generally high, although, as with all single-barrel offerings, there can be some variation between bottles. Its collectability, coupled with its excellent flavor profile, makes Blanton’s a sought-after bourbon that lives up to its reputation.
Blanton’s Bourbon is a standout in the world of American whiskey. Its combination of rich flavors, smooth texture, and unique packaging make it a must-try for bourbon enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in a classic cocktail, Blanton’s delivers a consistently satisfying experience that cements its place as a top-tier bourbon.
