Blanton’s Original Single Barrel: Bourbon’s Icon in a Bottle

Blanton’s The Original Single Barrel Bourbon isn’t just a whiskey—it’s a rite of passage for bourbon lovers. From its collectible horse-stopper tops to its rich, complex profile, this bottle has built a loyal global following. But what truly sets Blanton’s apart is its status as the first single-barrel bourbon ever sold commercially. Let’s break down why this legend still leads the pack.

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon

Blanton’s was launched in 1984 by Elmer T. Lee at Buffalo Trace Distillery to honour Colonel Albert B. Blanton. It changed bourbon history by bottling from a single barrel—a bold move at the time.

• Full Name: Blanton’s The Original Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey
• Brand: Blanton’s
• Category: Bourbon Whiskey
• Country: USA
• Region: Kentucky
• Distillery: Buffalo Trace (Sazerac)
• Style: Single Barrel
• ABV: 46.5% (93 proof)
• Age: NAS (Generally 6–8 years)
• Launch Date: 1984
• Availability: Highly allocated and limited in most regions

Tasting Notes

Expect a sensory ride from the first pour to the last sip.

• Appearance: Deep amber with golden hues
• Nose: Rich caramel, orange zest, baking spices, and a hint of clove
• Palate: Warm vanilla, sweet corn, honey, and charred oak
• Finish: Long, smooth, slightly dry with lingering spice

Price and Availability

It’s a hunt, but worth the effort.

• Price: $70–$150 (MSRP), but often much higher due to demand
• Availability: Limited, often sold out on release
• Where to Buy: Specialty liquor stores, auction sites, and select online retailers

Key Highlights

Blanton’s isn’t just a bourbon—it’s a collectible.

• Hand-bottled, each label handwritten with barrel details
• First-ever single-barrel bourbon sold commercially
• Iconic round bottle with horse and jockey stoppers
• Premium cork and wax-sealed packaging
• Trusted by collectors and casual drinkers alike

Experts’ View

Fred Minnick, bourbon authority, calls it “a landmark in modern whiskey history.” Early tasters praised its balance between sweetness and spice. Influencers often list it in their top 5 bourbons for both sipping and gifting.

Most reviews highlight its full-bodied flavor, collectible appeal, and memorable presentation. While some find the hype overblown, most agree it’s a smooth, classy pour worth the chase.

FAQs

Q1: Why is Blanton’s so hard to find?
It’s a single-barrel release with limited production and global demand.

Q2: What’s special about the bottle caps?
Each stopper has a different horse & jockey pose—collect all 8 to spell “B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S.”

Q3: Is Blanton’s worth the price?
At retail—absolutely. Above $150, it’s a collector’s call.