Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Blanton’s single-barrel bourbon range has a distinct appeal due to its diverse flavors and rarity.
- Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel holds the top spot for its rich and complex profile.
- Blanton’s Original Single Barrel offers the best value in terms of flavor, complexity, and price.
- Despite being hard to find, the thrill of securing a bottle of Blanton’s bourbon makes the chase worthwhile.
A Quintessential Taste of America: Blanton’s Bourbon
Since the advent of the world’s first single-barrel bourbon, Blanton’s has held a place of honor in the hearts of bourbon connoisseurs. The enticing range, notorious for its rarity, presents a variety of flavor profiles suited to different tastes. But when it comes to determining which Blanton’s is the best, let’s delve into the nuances of the famed bourbon and evaluate the top contenders.
Blanton’s Special Reserve: The Inviting Introduction
Marketed as an introductory edition, Blanton’s Special Reserve charms beginners with its vanilla and toffee palate and light, airy texture. Despite its lower proof, the subtle floral aroma and cedar hints make this variant an intriguing first taste of the Blanton’s range. However, this elusive expression remains available mostly in export markets, a testament to the brand’s global popularity.
Blanton’s Gold Edition: The Rich Complexity
Elevating the tasting experience, the Gold Edition thrills with its unique combination of smoothness and complexity. The bold notes of charred oak and spicy rye, complemented by honey and vanilla, give this 103-proof bottle a harmonious bold finish. The fuller-bodied nose and pronounced mouthfeel make the Gold Edition a popular choice among those seeking an impactful bourbon experience.
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel: The Classic Connoisseur
Known as the world’s first single-barrel bourbon, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel showcases classic bourbon flavors with an added layer of richness. The creamy vanilla aroma intertwined with baking spices presents a palate of honey, vanilla, and caramel sweetness. Its balanced complexity and added sweetness make it a standout selection for those seeking the quintessential bourbon flavor.
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel: The Intense Experience
Occupying the top spot, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel provides an intense bourbon experience. Bottled directly from the barrels, sans any proofing or filtering procedures, this expression reveals a rich body and complex flavors. This variant is a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate the unadulterated taste of barrel-proof bourbons.
The Elusive Chase: Finding Your Bottle of Blanton’s
Securing a bottle of Blanton’s can be challenging due to limited allocations and high demand. Even so, the quest to find a bottle in the labyrinth of the liquor market adds to the thrill of the bourbon tasting experience.
The Perfect Sip: Savoring Blanton’s Bourbon
Blanton’s bourbon’s intricate flavor and aroma shine when enjoyed straight or on the rocks with a splash of water. Some connoisseurs prefer to savor the rich profile neat in Glencairn glasses for a traditional bourbon tasting. Regardless, Blanton’s bourbons serve as an excellent base for cocktails, pairing well with club soda and ginger ale.
Final Thoughts
Determining which Blanton’s is the best is subjective and depends largely on individual preferences. However, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel seems to capture the hearts of most bourbon lovers for its raw, intense profile. Meanwhile, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel offers a balanced complexity and sweetness, presenting the best value for bourbon aficionados.
The quest for a bottle of Blanton’s bourbon might seem daunting given its rarity. Yet, the thrill of the chase coupled with the captivating taste experience makes it worthwhile for those who appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship of premium bourbon. Regardless of the choice, each sip of Blanton’s bourbon offers a unique exploration of the bourbon landscape.
