Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is legendary and will take your breath away in every sense of the word.
It was the third addition to Blanton’s selection and this one, in particular, is a favorite amongst whiskey experts.
Blanton’s is an iconic brand and strategically caters to everyone. With each bottle the experience is different.
In this review, we will take a closer look and the price of Blanton’s straight from the barrel and we will taste to reveal if it lives up to the name.
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel Review
History
Blanton’s was the first to bottle and market single barrel bourbon commercially to the general consumer. They also offer other spirits like Blanton’s Special Reserve bourbon.
This genius idea was implemented by Elmer T. Lee in 1984. Lee started at George T. Stagg distillery in 1949 and was hired by Albert Blanton himself.
Before retiring in 1985, Lee was asked to make the most amazing bourbon ever, so he did. So much so, a whole new category was created for bourbon called “‘super-premium”. The new high-quality bourbon made by Elmer shook the industry.
Lee named his new bourbon after Albert Blanton, honoring his former boss.
Overview
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel has a high alcohol percentage, by volume. It indicates that it is for the more experienced bourbon drinkers.
It is dumped straight from the barrel and whatever the proof is, that’s it. For this review, this particular bottle is a bold 126.7 proof.
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is made the same way as Blanton’s Original Single Barrel with corn, rye, and malted barley. Water from the Kentucky river is used in this production and the grains are milled on-site at their distillery.
The grains are added to the boiling water and it then undergoes a fermentation process followed by distillation and then barreled.
A number 4 char is used on the barrels which of course influences the flavor of the bourbon during the aging process. The interaction between the oak and whiskey results in a richer flavor.
Pros
- For experienced drinkers
- Great for a special occasion.
- Nostalgic
- Elegant
Cons
- Pricey
- Difficult to source
- No age statement
Detailed Analysis
When doing a bourbon tasting, key factors to consider would be the appearance, the smell, taste, and the effect it leaves behind.
On the nose, we will be observing the intensity of the aroma, considering it’s straight from the barrel, we assume this will be bold.
And on the palate, the maturity of the bourbon will be delivered through the years being absorbed in and out the oak barrels.
The finish refers to the impression left after the tasting.
Now that we know a bit about Blanton’s brand and the product of Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel, let’s pop the stopper and dive right in.
Appearance
For this tasting, we chose a tulip-shaped glass to get the best experience.
When poured, it is a glass of caramel beauty. The color emanates from aging in the barrels for 6 to 8 years.
The legs run smoothly around the glass when swirled and slowly make their way to the bottom again. Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel appears to have a full texture.
Nose
Once corked, Blanton’s Straight from the barrel makes its presence known.
The whole room smells of noble bourbon. The lingering aroma of spice is detected. Dark chocolate and caramel notes are in there as well. Also coming through are hints of toasted nuts.
Reminds one of a cozy Christmas eve, alongside a warm fire with loved ones.
There is a woody and rich aroma.
Taste
The first sip hits the chest fearlessly. Wow, this burns. Ignites your senses for sure.
Let it breathe for a few more minutes and then take a smaller second sip. It is more welcomed. Primary notes of spice and vanilla, walnuts, and hazelnuts. The taste of delicious sweet honey in there as well along with a slight citrus, and charred oak.
The high alcohol is intense, deep, and impressive with matured cask flavors coming through. The flavors are not hard to pick out as it hangs around.
Well, the bottle resembles a hand-grenade and the flavors certainly explode in your mouth. The bourbon coats the entire mouth. The texture is what it appeared to be, full-bodied, somewhat a heavy feel to it, like syrup.
Overwhelming at first and for the inexperienced bourbon drinkers, it will more than likely need to grow on the newbies.
Finish
It is aggressive but in a good way. It is highly enjoyable.
Flavor and burn carry through an extremely long finish. The burn sits with you as long as a hug.
Drink neat, or with ice. We felt that with a few drops of water added it opened up nicely and brought down the heat.
Price
Before fall 2020, Blanton’s Straight from the barrel was only available on the international market. This is due to the high demand for it internationally which initially was mainly Japan.
Thankfully it can now be bought in the US on a limited basis. And it sells for approximately $110 to $150.
It is a bit on the costly side, but it truly is an outstanding bourbon. So we would shop around for a more cost-effective price.
Conclusion
So now we know Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel looks, smells, and tastes amazing.
While the price tag could turn some people away, it truly is worth the spend. A sought-after gift for dad and grandpa, or a delicious ingredient for a good old bourbon trifle.
They also have beautiful stoppers on their bottles and you can collect all eight of them making your bar a whole lot more interesting.
It has certainly earned its place at the head of the table for quality bourbons.
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is second to none and just as they claim it to be, “Un-filtered, un-cut, unbelievable!”
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel FAQs
How long is Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel aged?
Typically, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is aged between 6 to 8 years.
How much should I pay for Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel?
We wouldn’t pay more than the US $150, although it is not always easy to find yourself a bottle at this price.
