Blanton’s Original Single Barrel: The Most Desired Bourbon in the World
When it comes to bourbon, few names carry as much weight as Blanton’s Original Single Barrel. It’s the bottle that collectors clamor for, and novices hunt down in hopes of discovering what all the fuss is about. Released by Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1984, Blanton’s holds a unique place in bourbon history. It was the first single-barrel bourbon ever introduced to the market, and with that, it forever changed how whiskey was both produced and perceived.
Today, Blanton’s is nothing short of a legend. But as with any legend, the real question remains: does the whiskey inside the bottle live up to the soaring reputation?
The Stats: What Are We Working With?
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel comes in at 93 proof, a solid mark that gives it enough weight to offer complexity without veering into the overly aggressive heat territory. At its heart, this is a bourbon known for its balance—both in terms of flavor and drinkability. But let's dig a bit deeper into what that means for the average bourbon enthusiast.
The Nose: An Apple Orchard Dusted in Cinnamon
On first approach, Blanton’s presents a bouquet that evokes autumnal warmth. The scent of green apples rises from the glass, mingling with a sprinkle of cinnamon, like the moment you walk through an apple orchard in fall. It's inviting but not overly complex, a pleasant introduction that promises a flavorful journey ahead.
For many, the nose is a critical part of the drinking experience, and here Blanton’s delivers well. It’s not going to overwhelm you with layers of nuance, but what’s there is appealing and easily approachable. It’s a nose that draws you in, whispering promises of warmth, fruit, and spice—though not necessarily depth.
First Sip: Sweet Heat and Simplicity
On the palate, Blanton’s opens with a punch of heat. There’s an immediate warmth that might catch you off guard, especially if you’re used to lower-proof bourbons. That initial heat gives way to a singular, rock-candy sweetness. It’s simple and straightforward—almost too much so. If you’re looking for complexity in this initial sip, you might find yourself a bit disappointed.
Blanton’s is smooth, yes, but it doesn’t immediately unveil layers of flavor. The sweetness is there, bright and sugary, but lacks the multifaceted depth of some bourbons at this price point. You’ll find yourself waiting for something more, something richer, which eventually does come—but only if you’re patient.
The Mid-Palate: Bright Fruit and Tartness
The true character of Blanton’s emerges mid-palate. As the sweetness fades, a more refined profile steps forward. Notes of bright, tangy fruits come into play—think orange zest and tart green apples, almost as if you’ve just bitten into a freshly picked fruit. This is where Blanton’s shows off a bit of its uniqueness. The balance between sweet and tart keeps the bourbon from feeling one-dimensional, and it’s in this moment that you start to see why Blanton’s has the reputation it does.
But is it groundbreaking? Perhaps not. The fruit notes, while enjoyable, aren’t exactly revelatory. They feel more like a gentle shift in gears than a dramatic unveiling of flavors. Still, they provide a refreshing contrast to the initial heat and sweetness.
The Finish: A Vanilla-Infused Sendoff
As the flavors subside, Blanton’s saves its best for last. The finish is where this bourbon truly shines. Lingering sweetness reminiscent of vanilla wedding cake wraps up the experience with a long, rich exit that coats the mouth and lingers long after the sip. It’s creamy and satisfying, the kind of finish that makes you want to pour another glass just to relive that final moment.
If anything, this is where Blanton’s earns its keep. The finish is well above average—smooth, decadent, and perfectly paced. It’s a strong 79 out of 100 for the finish, and honestly, it might be the best part of the entire tasting experience.
Value: When Prestige Meets Price Tag
Let’s get real for a second: Blanton’s is a name that carries a premium. That premium isn’t always deserved, especially considering the fierce markup this bottle often sees in today’s market. Finding Blanton’s at a retail price of under $90 is becoming increasingly rare, and once you cross into triple digits, the calculus changes dramatically.
Is it worth it? At under $90, absolutely. Blanton’s offers a solid drinking experience—one that’s smooth enough for newcomers and nuanced enough to keep seasoned bourbon drinkers engaged. But when sellers hike up the price due to demand, the value proposition starts to falter.
For value, Blanton’s gets a 60. If you’re lucky enough to spot it at retail, grab it. But if you’re faced with a steep markup, it’s worth considering whether you’re buying the bourbon itself or just the name on the label.
Overall Verdict: Excellent, But Tempered by Hype
Blanton’s is a bourbon that commands respect, and for good reason. It changed the game when it was introduced in 1984, and it’s still a solid, enjoyable pour today. However, it’s not without its shortcomings. The palate, while pleasant, doesn’t offer the complexity you might hope for in a bottle so sought after. The initial sweetness can feel a bit one-note, though the mid-palate and finish do their part to make up for it.
When all is said and done, Blanton’s earns an overall score of 70, which lands it in the “Excellent” category. It’s a bourbon that does many things right, but it’s also a bottle that lives, at least partially, on its own reputation.
Final Thoughts: To Buy or Not to Buy?
If you find a bottle of Blanton’s Original Single Barrel at a reasonable price—under $90—don’t hesitate. It’s a great addition to any bourbon collection and delivers a rich, rewarding experience, especially on the finish. But if you see it at an inflated price, don’t let the hype fool you into thinking you need to pay top dollar for this bottle.
Blanton’s is a bourbon worth trying, but its mystique might just outshine the liquid inside.
