Blanton’s is one of the most recognizable names in bourbon, known as much for its horse-topped bottle as for its single barrel legacy. It’s widely collected, often chased, and occasionally debated. But how good is it, really?
To find out, we looked at four recent reviews from whiskey experts covering Blanton’s Special Reserve, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel, and two takes on Blanton’s Gold. The verdict is that it is a good bourbon, if you find it at the right price. And while some expressions shine brighter than others, each has a clear purpose depending on your palate and experience level.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Blanton’s Special Reserve: Easygoing by Design
Blanton’s Special Reserve, sometimes called the “Green Label,” is positioned as the most approachable member of the family. Bottled at 40% ABV and aimed at international markets, it’s intended for drinkers just beginning to explore bourbon. That purpose shapes how it’s best understood and appreciated.
In his review, whiskey expert Finian Sedgwick describes the Special Reserve as light, citrusy, and well balanced, with flavors of green apple, orange zest, honey, and a hint of rye spice. He calls it “a great dram at that price” if you can find it near the $50 MSRP.
He concludes: “The questions for this bottle are: 1. How much did you pay? And 2. How familiar are you with bourbon? Neither should completely change your thoughts but definitely help put this bottling into perspective.”
That’s not a criticism so much as a reminder: this is a bourbon built for ease, not intensity. It plays a role as a gateway into the Blanton’s range, and at that, it succeeds. Just don’t expect fireworks. And don’t expect to pay $50 either. You will likely pay much more. Hence, Finian awarded the bourbon a 6 out of 10.
Must Read Stories
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel: A Classic with Character
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel is the bottle that started it all. First released in 1984, it was the world’s first commercially available single barrel bourbon, and it still carries that legacy with pride. Always drawn from Warehouse H at Buffalo Trace, it’s made using Mash Bill No. 2, known for its higher rye content.
Phil Dwyer’s review paints it as a fruit-forward bourbon with a strong backbone of classic American flavors. Notes of peach, coconut, caramel, and citrus give it a vibrant edge, while oak spice and vanilla provide balance. It’s approachable but full of personality.
The only real drawback is the price. Dwyer recalls when it could be found for £50 and calls it “an incredible bottle” at that point. But, he says, “when you start paying out three figures or more, it becomes hard to defend.” Still, for those wanting a benchmark of what Blanton’s is all about, this is the place to start.
Blanton’s Gold: Complexity Worth the Hype?
Blanton’s Gold is where the range steps up in strength, complexity, and price. Bottled at 51.5% ABV and originally intended for international markets, it’s often seen as the sweet spot for fans who want a richer, more layered bourbon experience.
Both reviewers agree it delivers. In her 2025 review, bartender and aspiring blender Jade Cox describes it as “incredible” and “timeless,” noting flavors of honey, apple, chocolate, and spice. She calls it intense and immersive, best suited to experienced whiskey drinkers who are ready for a bold sip.
Finian Sedgwick’s review echoes that praise but with a slightly more grounded tone. He highlights festive dessert flavors like cinnamon and toffee, wrapped in a creamy texture. While acknowledging the higher proof, he calls it “a real joy” and praises its balance and depth.
It is interesting to note that despite his praise, Sedgwick only awards Gold a 7 out of 10. This is mostly due to the price that U.S.-based Blanton’s fans find themselves paying for the bourbon. In the UK, however, Blanton’s is strangely cheaper and somewhat easier to find.
The consensus is that this is a standout bourbon, arguably the best in the core Blanton’s range, especially if you can find it near the MSRP. At secondary prices, it’s a tougher call, but among the brand’s offerings, Gold is where most of the fireworks happen.
So, How Good Is Blanton’s Bourbon?
Across the board, the experts agree: Blanton’s is good bourbon. In some cases, very good. The Special Reserve is light and approachable, designed for beginners and priced accordingly, when you can find it at retail. The Original Single Barrel remains a classic, full of fruit, spice, and history, though the rising price makes it harder to recommend without caveats. And Blanton’s Gold is where things get serious, according to our reviewers. It’s consistently praised for its richness, depth, and complexity, and it stands out as the most complete and rewarding pour in the lineup.
But all of this comes with one big asterisk: price. At or near MSRP, every expression in the Blanton’s range offers a strong case for itself. At inflated secondary prices, the story changes. You’re no longer just paying for what’s in the bottle, but you’re also paying for the hype.
So is Blanton’s worth it? The answer, like much in whiskey, depends. If you find the right bottle at the right price, there’s plenty to enjoy. But make sure that you temper your expectations if you are shelling out hundreds of dollars for a bottle.
