Bourbon

Blanton's Special Reserve

$210
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OVERALL
RATING

5

Bourbon Review: Blanton’s Special Reserve

Blanton's Special Reserve, also known as the Green Label, is an export-only bourbon released by Buffalo Trace Distillery as part of the Blanton's brand family.
  • Chief Growth Officer at BAXUS, expert in whiskey, spirits, wine, and blockchain with global industry experience.
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Tasting Notes:

About:
Blanton’s bills its Special Reserve bottling as “ideal for those new to single barrel bourbons.” At a gentle 40% ABV, the bourbon is not too overwhelming to the palate, and can be a great gateway to trying higher proof expressions such as Blanton’s Gold. It is made available by Buffalo Trace exclusively in select international markets outside the U.S. However, you can now find bottles at secondary retail.
Appearance:
Light copper
Nose:
Delicate nose thanks to the lower abv with some green apple and orange zest with a touch of honey and oak. The vanilla is hiding but in there, too.
Palate:
All the flavors on the nose carry through to the front of the palate as well as some caramel. Yummy raisin and toffee follow down the mid palate with some rye spice and a whisper of leather.
Finish:
It is a short but clean finish with more fresh citrus and cut grass, the vanilla and rye spice play well at the end leaving you wanting another drop as you search for more depth.
Comments:
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. IF you can find this bottle at its MSRP of $49.99 it’s a great dram at that price, it’s approachable and well balanced and you should be happy with this (if you grabbed it at a good price) but it will definitely leave you searching for more, luckily there’s plenty of other family members to discover.
Blanton’s Special Reserve is crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and available outside of the U.S. Credit: Buffalo Trace

Blanton’s Special Reserve

Blanton’s Special Reserve, also known as the Green Label, is an export-only bourbon released by Buffalo Trace Distillery as part of the Blanton’s brand family. It is distilled from the same high-rye recipe as all Blanton’s expressions but is bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV), significantly lower than the flagship release’s 93 proof (46.5% ABV), and the Blanton’s Gold at 51.5% ABV. This lower proof results in a smoother and more approachable flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for those new to bourbon or those who prefer a milder whiskey experience.

Blanton’s Special Reserve is available only in international markets and duty-free stores. Its smoothness and approachability make it a favorite among aficionados who appreciate its unadulterated strength and complexity.

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About The Brand

Blanton’s Bourbon, introduced in 1984 by Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee at Buffalo Trace Distillery, revolutionized the industry as the world’s first commercially available single-barrel bourbon. Named after Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a revered figure and former distillery president, it honors his tradition of selecting exceptional barrels for exclusive bottlings.

Launched during a challenging era for bourbon, Blanton’s broke new ground with its innovative single-barrel approach, setting a benchmark for premium quality. Its barrels have traditionally been exclusively aged in Warehouse H, a unique metal-clad structure known for its temperature variations, which contribute to the bourbon’s distinct character. However, according to Dominic Gugliemi – a Blanton’s expert – some of the barrels are now aged elsewhere, before being moved to Warehouse H for their final maturation period.

What Is Single Barrel Bourbon?

Single barrel bourbon is a premium whiskey made from one individual barrel, rather than being blended from multiple barrels. Each barrel is unique, influenced by factors like its location in the warehouse and the aging conditions it experienced. This results in slight variations in flavor, aroma, and character between bottles of the same brand.

The process ensures a high level of craftsmanship, with distillers selecting only the finest barrels for bottling. Because it isn’t blended, single barrel bourbon offers a distinctive drinking experience, highlighting the individuality of each barrel.

Whiskey enthusiasts appreciate the uniqueness and exclusivity of each single barrel bottling. With Blanton’s being the first single barrel bourbon to be marketed in the USA, it holds a special place in the hearts of bourbon lovers. If you are thinking of delving into single barrel bourbon, the Blanton’s Special Reserve is a great place to start.

Finian Sedgwick

A seasoned marketer and growth expert with over 14 years of global experience in the wine, spirits, and whiskey industry. Currently the Chief Growth Officer at BAXUS, Finian’s expertise spans Irish, American, and international whiskey, collectible spirits, wine, champagne, and blockchain technology. His portfolio includes successful collaborations with renowned brands such as Jameson, Chivas, Monkey 47, G.H.Mumm Champagne, and Black Emerald Irish Whiskey. Passionate about the power of words, shared experiences, and authentic connections, Finian is dedicated to bridging the gap between brands and consumers, advancing the drinks industry, and elevating the appreciation of exceptional beverages.

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