As a bourbon enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the different expressions and limited releases that come our way. One such rarity that caught my attention is Blanton’s Takara Gold, a unique variant of the well-known Blanton’s brand that is primarily marketed in Japan. This exclusive offering has captured the interest of bourbon aficionados worldwide, and I am excited to share my take on it with my fellow whiskey lovers.
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Table of Contents
Blanton’s Takara Gold Overview
Product History
Hailing from the renowned Buffalo Trace distillery in the USA, this unique offering is part of their Blanton’s line. It was specifically created for the Japanese market, providing a distinct twist on the classic Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel bourbon.
Blanton’s Takara Gold, rumored to be aged 8 years, boasts an alcohol content of 51.5% ABV, which sets it apart from other Blanton’s expressions.
Price Range
In terms of pricing, the Blanton’s Takara Gold can be found at around $499 for a 750ml bottle. While this may be on the higher end for some bourbon drinkers, my personal experience with this bold and flavorful whiskey has been well worth the investment.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon nosing the Blanton’s Takara Gold, I immediately pick up on the delightful aroma of sweet vanilla and caramel, accompanied by a hint of ripe red fruits. As I continue to enjoy the fragrant scents, warm spices such as cinnamon and clove start to appear, with a subtle rye spice lingering in the background.
Flavor
On the palate, Blanton’s Takara Gold treats me to a myriad of exquisite flavors. The initial taste offers a luscious blend of creamy honey, toffee, and brown sugar. As the whiskey moves across my tongue, various fruit flavors like orange, apple, and apricot come to the forefront, complemented by a gentle oakiness that adds depth and complexity.
Finish
The finish of Blanton’s Takara Gold is equally balanced and impressive. Soft notes of tobacco, pepper, and caraway seed provide a smooth and slightly spicy conclusion to this enjoyable bourbon. An aftertaste of dark fruit, charred oak, and a touch of butterscotch lingers in my mouth, inviting me to take another sip.
Rating
Given my experience with Blanton’s Takara Gold, I would rate this American whiskey at a solid 9.5 out of 10. The combination of rich flavors, smoothness, and complexity make it an excellent choice for any bourbon aficionado. With its rumored age of around 8 years and an ABV of 51.5%, it strikes a near-perfect balance in the world of whiskey. Considering the price I paid for it at around $150, it may not be an everyday drink, but it’s a wonderful treat to savor on special occasions.
Mixing And Pairing
As a fan of Blanton’s Takara Gold, I often find myself exploring various mixers, cocktails, and food pairings to enhance the overall experience. In this section, I’ll share my recommendations, as well as some widely recognized pairings.
Best Mixers
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When enjoying Blanton’s Takara Gold, some might opt for drinking it neat, but sometimes adding a mixer can enhance the flavors. Here are my top picks for mixers:
- Ginger ale: The sharpness of the ginger complements the spicy and earthy notes of the bourbon.
- Tonic water: The quinine in the tonic adds a nice bitterness that plays well with the whiskey’s flavors.
Cocktail Suggestions
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Blanton’s Takara Gold is a versatile single barrel bourbon that works well in various cocktails. Here are a couple of suggestions:
- Kentucky Mule: This twist on the classic Moscow Mule uses Takara Gold, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice. Garnished with a lime wedge, it’s a refreshing and easy-to-make drink.
- Gold Pineapple Old Fashioned: This is a fruity take on the classic Old Fashioned. Mix Takara Gold with a touch of pineapple juice and a few dashes of angostura bitters. Stir and serve over ice with a pineapple wedge garnish.
Food Pairings
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Pairing Blanton’s Takara Gold with food can enhance and complement the flavors of both the whiskey and the dish. Here are some options to consider:
- Cheeses: A good cheese board with a mix of creamy brie, tangy blue, and sharp aged cheddar can truly elevate this bourbon’s taste profile.
- Steaks: A nicely grilled steak with a touch of pepper and garlic pairs excellently with Takara Gold’s rich and robust flavors.
- Chocolate: For dessert, consider some dark chocolate or truffles as the bitterness of the cacao complements the sweetness and spiciness of Blanton’s Takara Gold.
Conclusion
In the end, though I enjoyed my experience with Blanton’s Takara Gold, it’s essential to remember that taste preferences vary and what appeals to me may not appeal to everyone. However, it certainly deserves recognition for the complexity and smoothness it offers. Cheers!
Related Posts
During my exploration of whiskey reviews, I came across a few interesting articles that I think you, my fellow whiskey enthusiasts, might enjoy.
- I found an article about Glenglassaugh unveiling their first-ever wood finish whiskies. It talks about the coastal distillery’s limited release series of Highland Single Malt Scotch whiskies and their unique wood finish expressions, such as Port Wood and Peated Port.
- Another fascinating read is an insightful pictorial journey of an attendee at the Toulouse Whisky Festival. It gives you a glimpse of what it’s like to be a part of a whiskey festival with a personal touch.
- If you’re looking for a malted escape, I stumbled upon this captivating travel story of a trip from Oban to Skye, filled with beautiful scenery and whiskey adventures.
- For those who appreciate the finer side of drams, there’s an article about The Dalmore unveiling a 40-year-old whisky. This expression adds a new dimension to The Dalmore’s repertoire and is definitely worth a read!
- Lastly, I came across an intriguing story of an Edinburgh attraction that launched its own whiskey. ‘Cask Is King’ is a new experience from The Real Mary King’s Close, launched during Whisky Month to celebrate Scottish heritage.
