(Elmer T. Lee) Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon 700ml (By Elmer T. Lee)

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon (By Elmer T. Lee : A Pioneer in Premium Bourbon

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon is one of the most iconic and respected names in the world of whiskey. As the first-ever commercially released single barrel bourbon, Blanton’s Original set a new standard for quality, craftsmanship, and innovation in American whiskey. Produced at the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, Blanton’s has become a symbol of excellence and a must-have for both collectors and casual bourbon drinkers alike.

With its distinctive bottle, hand-lettered label, and signature horse-and-jockey stopper, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon isn’t just a whiskey—it’s a piece of bourbon history.

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The Legacy of Blanton’s Bourbon

Blanton’s was introduced in 1984 by Elmer T. Lee, the master distiller at Buffalo Trace (then known as the George T. Stagg Distillery). Elmer T. Lee named the bourbon in honor of Colonel Albert B. Blanton, who had dedicated his life to the art of bourbon-making and served the distillery for over 55 years. Colonel Blanton was known for selecting special barrels from Warehouse H, the only metal-clad warehouse on the property, where aging conditions were known to be ideal.

Elmer T. Lee sought to capture the magic of those handpicked barrels and share them with the world. Thus, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon was born—the first of its kind and a true trailblazer in premium whiskey.

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What Makes Blanton’s Original Unique

What truly sets Blanton’s apart is the single barrel approach. Unlike most bourbons, which are blends of multiple barrels to achieve a consistent flavor profile, Blanton’s Original is drawn from just one carefully selected barrel at a time. Each bottle is unique, bearing information about the barrel number, warehouse, and even the date it was dumped. This means every bottle of Blanton’s Original offers a slightly different experience, while maintaining a consistently high standard of quality.

The bourbon is aged in the heart of Warehouse H, where the metal walls help magnify Kentucky’s seasonal temperature changes. This enhances the aging process, allowing the spirit to absorb more character from the oak barrels in a shorter time, resulting in a rich, full-bodied bourbon with a smooth and balanced flavor.

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Tasting Notes: A Perfectly Balanced Bourbon

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon is bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ABV), which allows the flavors to shine through without being overpowered by alcohol. On the nose, you’ll be greeted by warm notes of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices, with a hint of citrus and dried fruit. It’s inviting, complex, and immediately recognizable to those familiar with high-quality bourbon.

The palate delivers a smooth, creamy texture, offering flavors of sweet vanilla, rich caramel, and honeyed oak, balanced by subtle notes of rye spice, orange peel, and a touch of pepper. The mouthfeel is elegant and refined, with a long, satisfying finish that leaves hints of cinnamon, toasted nuts, and charred oak lingering on the tongue.

This level of balance and complexity makes Blanton’s Original a versatile bourbon—equally enjoyable neat, with a splash of water, or in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

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A Collector’s Favorite

Blanton’s Original is also beloved for its collectible packaging. Each bottle is topped with one of eight different stoppers, each depicting a horse and jockey in various stages of a race. Collecting all eight stoppers spells out “B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S”—a fun and rewarding pursuit for fans of the brand. Combined with the bottle’s distinct shape and wax-sealed top, it’s as beautiful on the shelf as it is in the glass.

Due to its popularity and limited production, Blanton’s can sometimes be difficult to find, making it a prized addition to any whiskey collection. Its reputation for quality, combined with its pioneering role in the single barrel category, ensures it will remain one of the most sought-after bourbons on the market.

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Why You Should Try Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon

If you’re exploring premium bourbons or looking to elevate your home bar, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon is a must-try. Its smooth, rich flavor, historical significance, and exceptional craftsmanship make it one of the finest examples of Kentucky bourbon. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends during a celebration, Blanton’s delivers a consistently top-tier experience that bourbon lovers appreciate.

From its roots as the first single barrel bourbon to its status today as a global icon, Blanton’s Original continues to impress with every pour. This is more than just a whiskey—it’s a celebration of tradition, excellence, and the spirit of Kentucky craftsmanship.

 

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