Blanton's The Original Single Barrel #554 Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Blanton’s made industry headlines when Master Distiller, Elmer T. Lee introduced the brand in the 1980s as the very first commercially available single-barrel Bourbon. It was named after the former President, Colonel Albert Bacon Blanton, who in 1901 became the Distillery Superintendent at just twenty years of age (he was also the President of the George T. Stagg until 1952 - now known as Buffalo Trace Distillery). A labour of love saw the enterprise become the only working producer in Kentucky during Prohibition (1920 to 1933). Later, following the great flood of 1937, Blanton had the operation back and running within 24 hours of the waters subsiding. Legend has it that the Colonel had a knack for selecting “honey barrels”, bottling them as gifts for ambassadors, dignitaries, family and friends. All of these barrels came from the middle section of Warehouse H, the only single story, metal-sided warehouse at the distillery, which is said to cause the aging spirit to interact with the oak at a steadier rate, meaning Blanton’s can be bottled at just 6 to 8 years of age and taste mature. That said, the age of Blanton's varies from bottle to bottle depending on the Master Distiller's discretion, which is why they've always been NAS releases.

Blanton’s is further distinguished by its use of a higher percentage of corn than most other Bourbons, although the team at Buffalo Trace continue to keep the mash bill a guarded secret. Part of its popularity must be down to the allure of the packaging: The unmistakable multi-faceted squat decanters topped by a tiny horse and jockey have become a trademark and simply make the brand feel special. Up until just a few years ago, it was relatively easy to buy a bottle of Blanton’s. Nowadays it's on the list of hardest-to-find Bourbons in America. Imports to Australia remain sporadic, so if you're keen, grab it whenever you can find it at a reasonable price.

Other reviews... The aroma shows soft, toasty notes of cornbread and cinnamon sugar with a subtle, slightly savory crème brûlée sweetness and a touch of orange zest that adds a welcome brightness. The palate is oily and sweet with a classic brown sugar and vanilla bean profile that comes across with a light, almost toasted marshmallow note, with a little bit of barrel char adding some astringency. The heat is soft at first and builds gently, along with the sweetness and baking spice. It’s really the finish that seems to be the most lackluster part of this one, as those flavors tend to dissipate a bit too soon. Blanton’s remains an incredibly approachable bourbon that still holds its own among the many single barrel bourbons that have come out since its debut. [2021 batch tasted] - drinkhacker.com

...The original single barrel bourbon continues to defy odds with its ability to provide a consistent sip year after year and a flavor profile that defines approachable. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel is the age defying brand that continues to please consumers year after year with a product that could easily vary widely barrel to barrel, yet rarely does. Its consistency delivers a classic bourbon flavor profile that will please almost anyone. While it may not be the best single barrel available at any given moment, even among its own Blanton’s siblings, it is by far and large, one of the more approachable ones. [2021 batch tasted] - breakingbourbon.com