Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel is all about giving you bourbon in its most genuine form, straight up and full-strength. It’s a standout for delivering that direct-from-the-barrel taste, highlighting a rich, uncut flavor that packs a serious punch.
This review breaks down what you can expect from its aroma, taste, and aftertaste, aiming to give you a clear picture of its character. Plus, I’ll share some tips on how to best enjoy this top-tier bourbon.
In-Depth Review On Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Bourbon
Blanton’s is strong, often hitting above 60% alcohol by volume (ABV), which means it’s not messing around. The nose is a mix of caramel, vanilla, and dark fruits with a bit of oak. Tasting it, you’ll find it rich with spices, chocolate, and toffee, all wrapped in a creamy texture. The finish is long, warm, and sweet.
Whether you’re deep into your bourbon journey or just starting out, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel shows off what premium bourbon is all about, with a price tag of around $250. Let’s dive into what makes this bourbon a must-try for those who like their spirits straight and strong.
Distillery: Where Is It Made?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel bourbon is meticulously crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, nestled in the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky. This historic distillery is revered for its deep-rooted legacy in bourbon production, dating back over two centuries.
As the birthplace of Blanton’s, Buffalo Trace stands as a bastion of traditional whiskey-making, combining time-honored methods with modern innovation. The distillery’s commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle of Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel, embodying the spirit of Kentucky’s rich whiskey heritage.
Distillation & Aging: How Is It Made?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel bourbon undergoes a rigorous distillation process, which is the cornerstone of its character. Crafted from a carefully selected blend of grains, the mash bill is a closely guarded secret that imparts a distinctive flavor profile. Following distillation, the bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels, a critical step that imbues it with its rich amber color, complexity, and depth.
The barrels are stored in the historic warehouses of Buffalo Trace Distillery, where fluctuations in temperature and humidity play a vital role in the maturation process. This bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel, uncut and unfiltered, to preserve its full-bodied flavor and potency, making each batch unique.
Nose: What Does It Smell Like?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel has a welcoming scent, featuring a mix of cinnamon, caramel, and fruity touches like apples and cherries. You’ll notice an oak aroma too.
Each scent promises a robust and flavorful tasting experience, setting the stage for the rich palate that follows. It’s a bourbon that really grabs your attention just by the smell alone.
Palate: What Does It Taste Like?
Upon your first sip, you’ll find that Blanton’s really lives up to it’s stellar reputation. Taste-wise, first you get a mix of ripe fruits like cherries and apples, mixed with a spicy hit of cinnamon and the richness of dark brown sugar.
You also get a sense of warmth that reminds you of freshly baked goods, think buttery pastries dusted with cinnamon. It’s a deep and thoughtfully made bourbon that strikes a balance between richness and smoothness. Every sip brings out a new layer, making you appreciate the blend of flavors even more. It’s the kind of bourbon that invites you to take your time with it, discovering something new with each taste.
Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?
The finish on Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel really sticks with you. It wraps up the experience with a blend of sweetness, like liquid brown sugar, and adds a bit of heat with notes of oak and tobacco. You’ll also catch a continuation of fruit flavors, like raspberries, peaches, and cherries, which smooths everything out.
This finish isn’t just the end, it’s more of a summary of what you’ve just enjoyed, leaving behind a warm and satisfying taste that makes you want to dive back in. It’s exactly this kind of finish that showcases the bourbon’s quality and the care that went into making it.
My Personal Thoughts
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel is truly exceptional. It’s a bourbon that doesn’t compromise on strength or flavor, making each sip a rich experience. It’s bold, yes, but also layered and intricate. For those who appreciate the finer details in their bourbon, this one’s a winner. It’s a bottle that earns its place on the top shelf, offering a taste experience that’s hard to forget.
Flavor Profile
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel boasts a rich and intricate flavor profile that captivates from the first sip. It features a harmonious blend of deep caramel and vanilla, punctuated by spicy notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
The essence of dark chocolate and ripe dark fruits add layers of complexity, while the foundation of oak provides a robust backbone. This bourbon’s unfiltered nature ensures that each element is pronounced and pure, offering a tasting experience that is both bold and beautifully balanced.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I would recommend Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel to anyone with a genuine appreciation for high-quality bourbon. Its complex flavor profile and cask strength character make it an ideal choice for experienced whiskey enthusiasts who seek depth and authenticity in their spirits.
Additionally, its rich history and meticulous production process may appeal to collectors and those interested in the heritage of American whiskey. For those looking to explore the world of uncut, unfiltered bourbons, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel represents a pinnacle of craftsmanship that is sure to impress.
Awards: What Is It Famous For?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel whiskey is a true gem for bourbon enthusiasts, boasting a rich tapestry of accolades that underscore its excellence. This cask-strength bourbon, celebrated for its robust flavor and unparalleled smoothness, has clinched numerous awards, highlighting its superior quality and craftsmanship.
Among its accolades are high honors from prestigious competitions like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the World Whiskies Awards. These awards not only recognize Blanton’s for its complex flavor profile, but also its commitment to traditional distilling methods. It’s a standout choice for those seeking an exceptional whiskey experience, recognized globally for its excellence.
Price: How Much Does It Cost?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel whiskey commands a premium price due to its bold flavor profile and limited availability. The MSRP is around $150, but it can reach up to $300 on the secondary market, indicating its high demand and status as a whiskey collecting item.
Considering its price, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel should really be for special occasions rather than an everyday drink. Its value for money is largely depends on personal preference for cask-strength bourbons and the importance you place on having a rare and collectible bottle.
Alcohol Content: What’s The ABV?
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel bourbon boasts a high ABV, often around 65.7%. This high alcohol content significantly impacts its flavor profile, delivering a bold and intense tasting experience. The high alcohol level also amplifies the whiskey’s warmth and spiciness, creating a pronounced “Kentucky hug”.
This potent combination of flavors and sensations makes this a pretty intense bourbon, offering a taste experience that is both challenging and rewarding for the palate.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Bourbon
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in numerous ways, catering to a wide range of palates and preferences. Here are expert tips on achieving the perfect balance of flavors:
Enjoying Neat
For purists, savoring it neat is the ultimate way to appreciate its complex flavor profile and robust character. This method allows the intricate nuances to shine through, offering an undiluted experience. To enjoy Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel neat:
- Pour 1-2 ounces into a whiskey glass.
- Let it sit for a few minutes; this allows the bourbon to breathe.
- Take small sips to fully appreciate the depth of flavors.
Adding Water
Adding a splash of water can open up the flavors further, making the bourbon more approachable without diluting its essence. This method can reveal hidden notes and soften the alcohol’s impact. To add water:
- Pour your desired amount of bourbon into a glass.
- Add a few drops of water (preferably spring water).
- Swirl gently and let it sit for a moment before tasting.
- Notice how the water releases new aromas and flavors, particularly the sweetness and fruitiness.
With Ice
Using an ice cube can cool the bourbon and slightly dilute it over time, offering a changing tasting experience. Ice can also tame the high proof, making it smoother. To enjoy with ice:
- Place one large ice cube in a whiskey glass.
- Pour the bourbon over the ice.
- Let it chill for a minute or two.
- As you sip, observe how the flavors evolve as the ice melts.
In Cocktails
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel serves as an excellent base for sophisticated drinks, enhancing classics like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan with its depth and intensity. The bold flavors of the bourbon stand up well in cocktails, adding complexity and richness.
Expert Cocktail Tip: Blanton’s Boulevardier
- Ingredients: 1.5 oz Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel, 1 oz Campari, 1 oz sweet vermouth.
- Preparation: Stir all ingredients with ice until well chilled. Strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel.
- This cocktail showcases the bourbon’s spicy and sweet notes, balanced by the bitterness of Campari and the herbal qualities of vermouth.
Whether enjoyed in its purest form or as part of a crafted cocktail, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel promises a memorable and satisfying bourbon experience. Experimenting with different ways to enjoy this bourbon can lead to personal discoveries and a deeper appreciation for its quality and versatility.
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Bourbon vs Blade and Bow Bourbon
Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel offers a robust and intense flavor profile due to its high alcohol content. You can expect strong notes of caramel, vanilla, and a noticeable spice that adds to its richness. The flavors are deep and well-defined, with a warmth that is more pronounced because of the bourbon’s cask strength nature. It’s designed for those who appreciate a stronger, more flavorful bourbon experience.
Blade and Bow, on the other hand, presents a smoother and more mellow flavor profile. It features a balance of sweet and oaky notes, with hints of dried fruit and a subtle spice background. Its flavors are more restrained compared to Blanton’s, making it suitable for those who prefer a bourbon that’s easier on the palate. If you want more detail check out our Blade and Bow review.
Between the two, I much prefer Blanton’s. It’s the clear choice for those seeking a more powerful and flavor-packed bourbon. Its high ABV and rich taste profile cater to those looking for an intense bourbon experience. Blade and Bow might be your drink if you’re looking for a gentler, smoother bourbon.
