This afternoon we are tasting the grand daddy of single barrels, Blanton’s. This was one of the first if not the first mass produced single barrel Bourbon. It is definitely the most famous. They started their single barrel program back around 1984, way before the current craze for such a thing began.
It is readily available, costs around $55 and comes in a cool, ornate, almost egg shaped corked bottle. On top of the cork is a metal figurine of a jockey on a race horse. There are 8 different ones depicting various stages of a horse race. Blanton’s weighs in at 93 proof, and on a side note was first made under the guidance of the legendary Elmer T Lee.
NOSE
Todd: On breathing in the aroma of Blanton’s, my first thought was, lovely. I got caramel, vanilla and fruit. Maybe even a little coffee.
Matt: I did not pick out the coffee but did get the rest. I also got a lot of honey and a little spice.
TASTE
Todd: Even neat Blanton’s is pretty smooth and not too hot. It tasted both sweet and spicy with a little bit of citrus.
Matt: Very smooth and sweet even neat. Got tastes of leather and tobacco. Opens up a little with a small ice cube.
FINISH
Todd: The finish was decent with a slightly musty taste. I also got just a hint of mint.
Matt: Blanton’s has a long slow satisfying finish with a touch of spice.
OVERALL
Todd: A very, very satisfying drink. One that I always have in my cabinet, and one that I love to take out and have a snort. My only real complaint is that it doesn’t seem all too complex.
Matt: Excellent Bourbon! Everyone should try it and even better to own a bottle. Enjoy neat or with a small cube or splash of water.
Nose 4.5 out of 5
Taste 9 out of 10
Finish 3.5 out of 5
Total 17 out of 20 Barrels
Well it doesn’t take a genius to see we really liked this stuff. The only thing holding back the score was a slight lack of complexity on the taste and finish. Seems like at $55 there should be a little more. That said, this is a wonderful drink, meant to stand alone. We are sure it would also make a great cocktail, but why?
It is smooth, flavorful and easy drinking. Adds just enough spice to make it interesting. Also makes a cool presentation with the bottle. Our recommendation, BUY!