Blanton's

Blanton's

Blanton's – The Inventor of Single Barrel Bourbon

Blanton's is not just any bourbon – it's the whiskey that revolutionized the entire bourbon world in 1984. As the first officially marketed single barrel bottling in history, Blanton's laid the foundation for what is now a global genre. Behind the brand is the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, one of the oldest and most respected distilleries in North America.

Pioneering Spirit from Frankfort, Kentucky

The story begins with Colonel Albert B. Blanton, who managed the Buffalo Trace Distillery for over 50 years and always reserved barrels from the "Warehouse H" storage area for special occasions – convinced that individual, carefully selected barrels simply tasted better. His distiller, Elmer T. Lee, who remained active until old age, officially brought this philosophy to life in 1984, launching Blanton's as the first Single Barrel Bourbon. Elmer T. Lee has since been considered one of the most influential figures in modern bourbon history.

The Iconic Bottle

Blanton's is instantly recognizable: The round, spherical bottle with the hand-stamped label and the famous metal stopper in the shape of a galloping racehorse with jockey is a collector's item in itself. Each of the eight different riders carries a letter – together they spell B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S. Collectors worldwide hunt for the complete set, making Blanton's one of the most coveted bourbons globally.

The Range at a Glance

  • Blanton's Original Single Barrel – The flagship, 46.5% Vol., with notes of citrus, caramel, vanilla, and a long, spicy finish

  • Blanton's Special Reserve – Slightly milder at 40% Vol., ideal for beginners and cocktail enthusiasts

  • Blanton's Gold Edition – More intense and complex than the Original, 51.5% Vol., with robust oak and dried fruit notes

  • Blanton's Straight from the Barrel – The uncompromising cask-strength version at around 64–66% Vol., undiluted and only available in Japan and selected markets – an absolute collector's item

Taste & Character

Blanton's matures exclusively in Warehouse H, the warmest storage area of the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which promotes particularly intense barrel interaction and a characteristic aroma profile. In the glass, notes of ripe orange, caramel, vanilla, ginger, and oak emerge, followed by a long, slightly spicy finish with a hint of mint. Each barrel is individually evaluated and bottled only after reaching its individual maturity – no two Blanton's taste exactly alike.