As a whiskey enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for unique and rare bottles to add to my collection. So, I tried the Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon, a highly sought-after release exclusive to Japan. This eight-year-aged Kentucky bourbon promised a one-of-a-kind tasting experience, and I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is said to be aged for at least eight years, two years longer than the standard Blanton’s release in the US. The whiskey is bottled at 46.5% ABV and is known for its rich, complex flavor profile. I was curious to see how the extra aging affected the taste and aroma of the whiskey and whether it was worth the premium price tag.
Table of Contents
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Overview
In this section, I will provide an overview of this unique whiskey, including its product history and price range.
Product History
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is a premium whiskey that is highly sought-after by whiskey enthusiasts. It is produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is known for its high-quality whiskeys. The Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is aged for at least eight years, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is rich, smooth, and complex.
The Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is named after Colonel Albert B. Blanton, who was the former president of the Buffalo Trace Distillery. He was known for his passion for producing high-quality whiskeys, and the Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is a testament to his legacy.
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Price Range
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is a premium whiskey, and as such, it comes with a premium price tag. The price range for this whiskey can vary depending on where you purchase it. On average, you can expect to pay at least $100 for a bottle of Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon.
While the price may seem steep, it is important to remember that this is a premium whiskey that is aged for at least eight years, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is unmatched by other whiskeys. If you are a whiskey enthusiast looking for a unique and high-quality whiskey, then Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is definitely worth trying.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted with a strong aroma of caramel, butter, and vanilla, with hints of oak and spice. The scent was sweet and creamy, but not overpowering, and had a pleasant warmth to it. As I poured the whiskey into a glass, I noticed a subtle hint of cherry soda in the air, which added a nice touch to the overall aroma.
Flavor
The first sip of Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon revealed a smooth and rich flavor of butter and toffee, with a subtle hint of vanilla and spice. The taste was sweet, but not overly so, and had a nice balance of flavors. As I continued to sip, I noticed a slight nuttiness and a hint of dark fruit, which added complexity to the flavor profile.
Finish
The finish of Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon was long and satisfying, with a subtle warmth that lingered in the mouth. The sweetness of the caramel and toffee dissipated, giving way to a dry, slightly bitter tone with notes of toasted oak and nut. The finish was not harsh or overpowering, but rather smooth and well-balanced.
Rating
Overall, I would rate Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon as a high-quality whiskey that is definitely worth trying. The aroma and flavor are both rich and complex, with a nice balance of sweetness and spice. The finish is smooth and satisfying, with a subtle warmth that lingers in the mouth. I give it a 9 out of 10 and highly recommend this whiskey to anyone who enjoys good bourbon.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon, it’s best to keep it simple. I recommend using a high-quality ginger ale or soda water to bring out the sweet and spicy notes of the whiskey. You can also try mixing it with a splash of apple juice or cranberry juice for a refreshing twist.
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Cocktail Suggestions
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon is a versatile whiskey that can be used in a variety of cocktails. One of my favorite cocktails to make with this bourbon is a classic Old Fashioned. Simply mix 2 oz. of Blanton’s Red Label with 1/4 oz. of simple syrup and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with a cherry and an orange peel.
Another great cocktail to make with Blanton’s Red Label is a Manhattan. Mix 2 oz. of Blanton’s Red Label with 1 oz. of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a cherry.
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Food Pairings
Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon pairs well with a variety of foods. Its sweet and spicy notes make it a great match for grilled meats, especially steak and pork chops.
For a sweet treat, try pairing Blanton’s Red Label with a slice of apple pie or a chocolate dessert. The sweetness of the bourbon will complement the flavors of the dessert perfectly.
Conclusion
I found Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel to be a unique and enjoyable bourbon. The eight-year aging process gives it a smooth and complex flavor profile that is sure to please any bourbon enthusiast.
One thing that stood out to me was the mix of flavors in Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel. The butter and vanilla notes blend well with the caramel, fruit, and spice flavors to create a well-balanced taste. The smoky, peppery rye spice adds a nice kick to the finish, making it a great sipping bourbon.
Another aspect of Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel that I appreciated was the attention to detail in the bottling and labeling process. The unique horse and jockey topper on each bottle adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it a great addition to any bourbon collection.
I would highly recommend Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel to any bourbon lover looking for a high-quality, unique, and enjoyable sipping experience. The price point may be a bit steep for some, but I believe it is worth the investment for the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
Related Posts
As a whiskey enthusiast, I always love to explore new flavors and brands. If you enjoyed Blanton’s Red Label Single Barrel Bourbon, then you might want to check out these related posts:
- A closer look at Mackmyra Ten Years: Mackmyra Ten Years is a Swedish 10-year old single malt whisky. If you want to try something different from the usual bourbon, this might be a good option to explore.
- Reviewing Glen Scotia 25 years old: Glen Scotia is a Scottish distillery that produces single malt scotch whisky. If you want to try a scotch that’s been aged for 25 years, this review might be helpful.
- A closer look at the new Highland Park Valkyrie: Highland Park is another Scottish distillery that produces single malt scotch whisky. If you’re interested in Viking mythology and want to try a scotch that’s inspired by it, this might be worth exploring.
- Reviewing the reborn Glenmorangie Astar: Glenmorangie is a Scottish distillery that produces single malt scotch whisky. If you want to try a scotch that’s been matured in bespoke oak casks, this review might be helpful.
- Dream Dram: Glen Moray Mastery on the tasting table!: Glen Moray is a Scottish distillery that produces single malt scotch whisky. If you want to try a scotch that’s a blend of different vintages, this review might be helpful.
