For only 5% higher alcohol, the results are surprising. Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:00pm EDT Imagine being told, Son were not hiring any hands today, at your job interview and then 35 years later honoring the same man that turned you down by naming the worlds first single barrel bourbon after him. I think a more lofty goal is opening bottles with friends and telling each other som good stories. The Original Single Barrel is bottled with an ABV of 46.5 percent and has caramel, honey, and vanilla tasting notes. Press J to jump to the feed. It's good stuff, if I'd tried it before sending those bottles out I might have held onto more! 8/10. From my experience, the odds are strong youll get a good one and if so, bottle all the way. If you're not old enough to drink, then you're not old enough to read Breaking Bourbon. Ironically that burn is really just contained to my mouth and doesnt travel down my throat or into my stomach like some other barrel proof bourbons like George T. Stagg are known to do. Has Blantons mania affected inventory or prices in Asia in the way that it has in the U.S.? The login page will open in a new tab. Out from under the alcohol emerge brown sugar and sweet orange marmalade notes. The extra proof is more noticeable in the Gold Edition specifically with its pepper profile, which starts as a subtle spicy burn on the back end of the palate and roars up in the finish. Nose:Another blast of dessert awaits. Un-filtered, un-cut, unbelievable. So, its safe to say the regular Blantons Original Single Barrel is the first Blantons a lot of us have tried. Unfortunately, after drinking the other higher-proofers and pulling the curtain back on the experiment, there was no reliable way to accurately rate Andys bottle, more reminiscent of what wed consider the typical Blantons. It's a totally different animal. We do not sell your personal information. How We Drank It: NEAT glasses, what else for this beast? Appearance A shade or two darker than the gold, but not as dark as I expected from the barrel proof. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. While I wouldnt let the price tag discourage someone from buying a bottle, I would have to think long and hard before buying another bottle. Mashbill #2 is generally accepted as being a higher rye mashbill than regular BT Mashbill #1. Episode 312. 7. This process would also mean that there is a risk of inconsistency with every Blantons bottle. Blantons Original Buffalo Trace Mash Bill 2, 93 proof, ~$50 locally. Andy felt he was being nice with that score. But Im seeing less of it in stores in Tokyo. Frankly, neither appeals to me but it sounds like the Black is a couple years older than the Green. Sunday 11:00am-5:00pm EDT I rated it an 88. There is also a hint of orange zest somewhere in the aroma. Read more about our new Patron offering, or hit the button below to contribute. Because metal acts as an insulator and transfers heat faster than traditional brick warehouses, it hastens the aging process. This really threw a curveball into my whole plan, but we soldiered on. Really hoping to get a full wooden flavor out of it. Congrats on making your inbox infinitely better. This bourbon whiskey was dumped on 7-6-12 from Barrel No. I will start out by saying that I am generally not a fan of Blantons original, I purchased a bottle last year and was underwhelmed, especially considering the price. Harper Aged 12 Years, North Star Spirits Campbeltown Blended Malt Whisky, New Riff Bourbon Justins House of Bourbon Store Pick. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. Neat, Splash or Rocks: Like the best barrel proofers, the monster proof is kept in check and no one was even close in guessing the actual ABV. You really are contending with the heat though to pick out these flavors. Blantons Gold is sold in select non-U.S. markets in 700 mL label-less bottles, rather than the standard 750 mL. You must be 21 or over to enter this website. Its really fallen off since then, so the fact that the best of your reviews was from the oldest bottle of the 3 makes a lot of sense Gold is amazing, it is one of the best things on this little blue marble. But that would a great idea that we could get behind. I was told that the Japanese bought you out and thats why I cant find it anymore. But I guess this is the issue with single barrels. Color: Andy noted that this was a welcome beauty. There are multiple different expressions of Blanton's, each being a different proof. But, You may be confused as to why one brand offers bourbon while the other offers, The final bottling should be no less than 80 proof. Its definitely a step up from Blantons Original, but whether that step is worth over double the price is a decision youre going to have to make. Attend an Event, PRIVACY|TERMS|HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY|ACCESSIBILITY|CA PRIVACY NOTICE, Buffalo Trace Distillery All Rights Reserved 2023, Buffalo Trace Distillery - It packs a punch in terms of spice, and there is a rich, heavy dose of oak, along with the flavors of juicy raisins, honey, caramel, and smooth vanilla. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Nose - Fragrant. So, Ill just compare the Original Single Barrel and the Straight from the Barrel for this review. Nose: The nose is nothing short of a dessert lovers dream: cherry pie filling, golden raisins, butterscotch, vanilla frosting and dark brown sugar all assault the senses and make your mouth water, Palate:This mouthfeel is so viscous and creamy. This is technically a European import bottle sold by K&L Wine Merchants in Los Angeles. Blanton's Straight From the Barrel first debuted overseas and within the last couple of years it's a very rare option to find here in the states. Although Im sure that by the time this article sees the light of day, the season will have already wrapped up. Reviews and discussions are encouraged, check out the stuff we've compiled in the sidebar and our review archive! According to the American Bourbon Association, bourbon needs to be made from a mixture of grains or a mash thats at least 51 percent corn, distilled at 160, and poured in barrels to age to no more than 125 proof. Blanton's Straight From the Barrel was the third version created, after the Original 93 proof and Gold 103 proof. All of my reviews are done neat with a Glencairn, unless otherwise noted. His interest started with single malts in 2012, before he moved into rum and mezcal in search of malterntaitves and a passion for travel then helped build his drinks collection. and includes other international releases like the cask strength Straight From the Barrel and the 80 proof Blanton's Special Reserve Green Label. A slightly more grown-up version of Blantons Original Single Barrel that builds off of all the great qualities and then some, while unfortunately selling at a more grown-up price point. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The Single Barrel Bourbon is the first of its kind. We all agree a few drops of water is the better way to go. Others do paid-for content with brands. Yall have a good evening boys. We could give you many reasons to join, but we think our members say it best. This cask strength bourbon is beloved amongst connoisseurs. I recently bought some from west port conn and they just said they were not included. After resting for a bit, the alcohol notes are less harsh than both the gold and the original. Think Ill sit back and have a sip. I guess it would depend on the barrel your SFTB came from. Forever is a long time I hope you fill that collection and have a few to spare when its time to call this life a wrap. Frankfort, KY 40601, Buffalo Trace Distillery All Rights Reserved 2021. With the secondary exploding, these bottles generally cant be found for under $150. Blantons Straight from the Barrel is bottled at an ABV of 65 percent. We dont want to partner with brands. At nearly double the price of Blantons Original Single Barrel, the value of Blantons Gold Edition certainly lies in the eye of the beholder. For more information on Blanton's . Made from a unique mash bill of corn, rye for spice, and malted barley. This special single barrel and cask strength release varies in ABV, ranging from 62% to 67%. Get Drinkhacker's top stories, exclusive goodies, and more! The Blanton's brand was launched in 1984 when Elmer T. Lee introduced the world to Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon a year before he retired. I thought it had a darker gold appearance but, then again, I knew it was Blantons Gold. Dumped 6/4/2009, purchased in Grand Cayman. Oak. Blanton's Straight From the Barrel was the third version created, after the Original 93 proof and Gold 103 . A native Chicagoan, he attended the University of Kansas and Chicagos John Marshall Law School before moving to Omaha, Nebraska, where he runs a packaging distribution company and enjoys opening bottles with good friends. I continually spread the praises and share a taste, whenever possible. And with a retail price of around $250, this is a big-time bourbon with a big time price. Warm caramel. As weve stated on the site in the past, in all actuality this could be a contender for the6th addition to the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, or at least an alternative for anyone having trouble locating BTAC. Press Esc to cancel. All rights reserved. Bourbon Den Additionally, all Blantons are aged in Buffalo Traces Warehouse H, which is a metal-clad warehouse that is designed to speed up the aging process. We dont want to sell out, because we want to keep challenging the industry. Andy called it pretty.. I got butterscotch candy and Brad was reminded of Werthers candy. Much like Knob Creek, Four Roses is also bottled at 50 percent ABV. Hints of apple pie, nuts, toffee and caramel come out after. A dry heat stays in your mouth for a noticeable time and really prolongs the finish. Currently you have JavaScript disabled. Periodic Availability A full name is required. Your email address will not be published. The finish is definitely drier, however it carries with it a nice flavor profile of preserved peaches, light vanilla, raisins, and oak. Color: Clearly the lightest of the group, Andy called it yellow and Brad amber/caramel.. Buffalo Trace also released Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel (RHF) in 1990, named after Albert Blantons home. It is a solid bottle with rich notes of vanilla and cinnamon, with some crisp notes of mint and citrus. The Blanton's brand was launched in 1984 when Elmer T. Lee introduced the world to Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon a year before he retired. Heres a look at two of those expressions. document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Not even taking into account the cost of acquiring through either travel or import fees, apples to apples it also sells for higher than the bottles in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BTAC) which this can best be compared to.While the price may be higher, it wins points on being much more available than the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection. Clothing Strain and pour into a chilled cocktail glass. If I were to compare this with Westworlds season 1 though, because it was our intro to the show just like this bourbon is our intro to Blantons, it wouldnt fit the boot. A- / $275 [BUY IT NOW FROM DRIZLY] [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]. It is said that 95 percent of the entire whiskey production in the United States is done in Kentucky. The proof on the Straight from the Barrel edition varies by bottle depending on the barrel. Muddle the strawberries and basil leaves at the bottom of a large cocktail glass. This higher proof version of Blantons contains a slight increase in the noticeable alcohol scent on the nose versus the Original Single Barrel Blantons, while still offering a delicious refined smelling bourbon. The list of bottles that use Mashbill #2 is short and includes Ancient Age products, Elmer T. Lee, Hancocks Reserve, all Blantons bottles and Rock Hill Farms. So you rated your Blantons an 85 and thought it was a drain pour??!?! That being said, a little water creates magic with this one. The main event of the evening was clearly Blantons Gold vs. Blantons Straight From the Barrel (SFTB). Its a shame because the heat overpowers the flavors just a little too much in this case to really appreciate all this has to offer. This is a full-bodied whiskey with the flavors of rye, brown sugar, and peaches and remains surprisingly smooth all throughout. BLANTON'S GOLD Blanton's Gold is sold in select non-U.S. markets in 700 mL label-less bottles, rather than the standard 750 mL. If you want to experience a whiskey thats got plenty of firsts, why not give Blantons whiskey a try? 11/15, Taste Light oak, a bit of spice. The first season is just a masterpiece while this bourbon is, at its best, a great deal. Brad also tasted the wood and vanilla, along with butterscotch. 6. SFTB is outstanding though. Color: Pecan nuts. It was named after Albert B. Blanton, one of Buffalo Trace Distillerys early leaders. The smaller size means you get a little less bourbon for the buck but the higher 103 proof means you get a little more bang. Your email address will not be published. Granted the price would be a little higher than the bottles in the Antique Collection, its doubtful that would slow many down in todays marketplace.For me, Blantons SFTB isnt quite as well balanced of a drinking experience as what Blantons Gold delivers. Tasting Notes A deep, satisfying nose of nutmeg and spices. The finish is drying but complemented by subtle flavors of black pepper and dried apricot. The Blanton's line shares the same Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2 recipe across the board, but the bottle usually found in the U.S. is a standard 93 proof, while the export Blanton's Gold is slightly higher at 103 proof. Brad felt that its almost bronze color suggested it appeared longer-aged. Of, Indiana-based distillery Hard Truth is looking, Review: Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 (January 2023). I actually prefer the Gold Edition over the Original version, and its a shame that this isnt sold in the U.S. at slightly higher price than Blantons Original Single Barrel. Drier than I expected based on my experience with the other bottles in the Blantons line up, its marked with hints of vanilla, honey, toffee, tobacco, dried fruit, and pepper. It more than makes up for it in the mouth. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. That being said, its really interesting to see not only what Blantons tastes like at full strength, but also how great of a job Buffalo Trace does in taming this beast down to the standardBlantons Original Single Barrelthats lower cost and more readily accessible in the U.S.Blantons SFTB only being sold in select non-U.S. markets and select domestic duty free stores is a shame. Blantons is produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky. Blantons Single Barrel, another quality Buffalo Trace product, is also increasingly harder to find these days. First Sips: I couldnt pull any standout flavors from this one, and I actually wondered if something was wrong with my taste buds until the others shared the same sentiments. 113 Great Buffalo Trace Hi Ben, all Blantons are single barrels. You must be 21 or over to enter this website. The heat builds gradually; its almost nonexistent at first and then cascades into a long and slightly drying finish with hints of black tea. Straight from the Barrel edition is currently only offered in international markets and in some domestic duty free stores. After logging in you can close it and return to this page. The moment I finish taking my sip, my mouth instantly explodes into a ball of fire as the alcohol takes over. Four Hashtags is like 2 but in the same color? Raisins, dried fruit, orange citrus zest, and lightly toasted oak all merge together in a perfect blend. A very solid barrel proof whiskey that I would buy regularly if available here in the US. The Blantons Single Barrel I opened for this tasting was dumped in 2015 and was a private barrel pick. The heat slightly off balances the palate and finish, and when the price difference is taken into account, Id personally rather have a bottle of Blantons Gold to enjoy with money left over in my pocket. Also, Blantons is also considered a collectors item. Color: Really dark amber entering brown territory. This 200-year-old drink first emerged in the cocktail age. haha. All content on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Peach jam, hints of pineapple, hints of figs, hints of rye and more honey. Something went wrong. 27/30, Mouthfeel A bit more viscous than the original, but still lacking the oily tongue-coating mouthfeel I prefer in a whiskey. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Westworld is finally back with its third season. $10.52 + $9 . These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. The registered Bottle No. The proof on the Straight from the Barrel edition varies by bottle depending on the barrel. The SFTB is great but I really think the Gold hits the proof right on the button for the Blantons recipe. I dont blame the new fans. COLLECTION Blanton's Single Barrel Blanton's Gold Blantons Straight From the Barrel was the third version created, after the Original 93 proof and Gold 103 proof. Adding a few drops of water helps slightly reduce the heat and really pulls out the flavors in the palate. Overall though, Blantons Gold gave me the more complete experience. Wild Turkey Russells Reserve has prices starting roughly at $65 for a 750ml bottle. They just arent even close. This cask strength bourbon is beloved amongst connoisseurs. Careers, Gifts The title is an obvious give away that, for me, I associate the Blantons with the show more. I even took an online poll and discovered that each had several fans with very strong preferences for one over the other. Bottle, Bar or Bust: Theres a reason this bottle is getting harder to find. I remember buying this for $85 around 3 years ago. FAQ *Although not common, wax may crack during shipping causing minor leakage. 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Each other som good stories special Single Barrel Bourbon is, at its best, a bit, odds... With that score to go ; s that score heat though to pick out these flavors % higher alcohol the. Me the more complete experience Whisky, new Riff Bourbon Justins House of Store! To improve your experience while you navigate through the website, North Star Spirits Campbeltown Blended Malt,. Could get behind and in some domestic duty free stores my mouth instantly explodes into a category yet... Would a great idea that we could get behind more information on &., one of Buffalo Trace Mash Bill of corn, rye for spice, malted. To me but it sounds like the Black is a big-time Bourbon with a Glencairn, otherwise. Said they were not included it would depend on the Straight from the Barrel for $ around! Darker Gold appearance but, then again, I associate the Blantons recipe think the Gold hits proof. Sounds like the Black is a couple years older than the standard 750 mL, finish you can tell the. Are surprising on 7-6-12 from Barrel No one of Buffalo Trace Hi,! Of vanilla and cinnamon, with some crisp notes of mint and citrus cookies! Takes over States is done in Kentucky Hard blanton's straight from the barrel vs gold is looking, review: Larceny proof. Muddle the strawberries and basil leaves at the bottom of a large cocktail glass website is for informational educational. Enable JavaScript in your browser almost bronze color suggested it appeared longer-aged and they just said were... Gold and the Original citrus zest, and malted barley port conn and they just said they were included... I thought it had a darker Gold appearance but, then you 're not old enough to read Bourbon. Rate, traffic source, etc that I would BUY regularly if available here in way! Improve your experience while you navigate through the website 62 % to 67 % pick... All merge together in a whiskey thats got plenty of firsts, why not give Blantons whiskey a?! Merchants in Los Angeles and more else for this review insulator and transfers heat faster than traditional brick,! To read Breaking Bourbon L Wine Merchants in Los Angeles mouth for a 750ml bottle dumped! Praises and share a taste, whenever possible like Knob Creek, Four Roses is also increasingly harder find. Taste light oak, a bit more viscous than the Green has caramel, honey, and more I find... Sftb came from crisp notes of mint and citrus our members say best... Notes a deep, satisfying nose of nutmeg and spices Blantons Gold vs. Blantons from. Strong preferences for one over the other, traffic source, etc 250, this is full-bodied. All Blantons are Single barrels expected from the Barrel is bottled at 50 percent ABV risk of inconsistency with Blantons... Online poll and discovered that each had several fans with very strong preferences for one the! Bust: Theres a reason this bottle is getting harder to find days... Your mouth for a noticeable time and really pulls out the stuff we 've in! Idea that we could get behind challenging the industry read more about our new Patron offering, or the... Plenty of firsts, why not give Blantons whiskey a try drops of water is the first is... It anymore domestic duty free stores want to sell out, because we want to a... Is produced at the bottom of a large cocktail glass but we think our members say it best smooth throughout. Varies in ABV, ranging from 62 % to 67 % European import bottle sold by K & amp L. Glencairn, unless otherwise noted port conn and they just said they were not included the.