Blanton’s Char. 04 Special Release 2022 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Blanton’s Bourbon​ Char 04 Special Release 2022: A Rare Bourbon Experience

Welcome to Rare Finds Liquor Store, where our passion is unearthing the world’s most exceptional spirits for the discerning collector and enthusiast. In the pantheon of American Kentucky whiskey, few releases generate as much anticipation and reverence as the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and, notably, the special releases from the iconic Blanton’s brand. In 2022, Buffalo Trace Distillery unveiled a true gem that sent ripples through the bourbon community: Blanton’s Char #4 Special Release.

This article is your definitive resource for everything about this legendary bottle. We’ll explore its unique creation, provide detailed tasting notes, place it within the broader context of the Blanton’s lineup, and answer the most pressing questions from collectors seeking this rare find.

The Blanton’s Legacy: The Original Single Barrel Pioneer

To fully appreciate the significance of the Blanton’s Char #4, one must first understand the foundation upon which it is built. The story of Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon begins with Colonel Albert B. Blanton, who stewarded the Buffalo Trace Distillery (then known as the George T. Stagg Distillery) through some of its most challenging times, including Prohibition.

Decades later, Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee honored his mentor by creating a revolutionary concept: a bourbon bottled from a single, exceptional barrel, rather than a blend of hundreds. In 1984, Blanton’s The Original Single Barrel Bourbon was born, forever changing the landscape of premium straight bourbon whiskey. This heritage of innovation and uncompromising quality is the DNA of every Blanton’s expression, especially its special releases.

What Makes a Bourbon “Special”? Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the char, let’s clarify what bourbon whiskey is. To be labeled a straight bourbon whiskey, the spirit must adhere to strict U.S. regulations:

• Made in the USA: It can be produced anywhere in the country, though Kentucky is its heartland.

• Grain Mashbill: It must be made from a grain mixture of at least 51% corn.

• Aging: It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.

• Proof: It must be distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof.

• No Additives: It must be free from added color, flavor, or other additives.

Blanton’s is a prime example of a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, meaning it is produced and aged in Kentucky for a minimum of two years, though Blanton’s is typically aged for 6-8 years.

Unveiling the Mystery: What is Blanton’s Char 4?

The Blanton’s Char #4 Special Release 2022 is not just another Blanton’s bourbon. It is a deliberate and bold experiment that focuses on one of the most critical elements of bourbon production: the barrel.

The Significance of the Char

When oak barrels are made, their interior is exposed to fire, creating a layer of char. This charred layer acts as a natural filter, removing unwanted congeners, and it catalyzes a reaction between the wood and the whiskey, imparting color, flavor, and complexity. The level of char is measured on a scale, typically from #1 (lightest) to #4 (heaviest).

Most standard Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is aged in barrels with a #3 or #4 char level. The Blanton’s Char 4 release, however, takes this a step further. This special edition is comprised of barrels that have been subjected to a deep, level #4 char, and many of these barrels were also aged in the unique microclimate of Warehouse H, famous for its metal construction and ability to produce intense temperature swings that accelerate maturation.

Key Characteristics of Blanton’s Char 4:

• Proof: Bottled at 108 proof (54% ABV), it sits squarely between the standard Single Barrel (93 proof) and the powerhouse Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel (SFTB). This proof point is high enough to carry a robust flavor profile without overwhelming the palate.

• Mashbill: It uses the same high-rye mashbill as other Blanton’s whiskey expressions, allowing the char’s influence to shine against a familiar spicy backbone.

• Packaging: The bottle features the iconic Blanton’s form but is distinguished by its special labeling indicating “Char #4” and its 108 proof statement. The collectible stopper, featuring a racehorse and jockey, remains a centerpiece.

Tasting Notes: A Deep Dive into the Flavor of Blanton’s Char 4

A Blanton’s Char #4 review is incomplete without a detailed sensory analysis. Here are our tasting notes from the team at Rare Finds Liquor Store:

Nose: The initial aroma is rich and profound. Expect a powerful wave of dark caramel and toffee, followed by deep charred oak and a distinct note of dark chocolate. Underneath lies a basket of dried dark fruits—figs and cherries—along with a hint of baking spices like nutmeg and a touch of leather. The higher proof is present but integrated, promising a full-bodied experience.

Palate: The mouthfeel is viscous and coating. The deep char influence is immediate, presenting as dark, almost bitter-sweet cocoa, espresso beans, and toasted oak. This is beautifully balanced by the classic Blanton’s whiskey sweetness, which manifests as burnt brown sugar, molasses, and a continuation of the dried fruit notes from the nose. The rye component of the mashbill provides a subtle, peppery spice that keeps the profile from being overly sweet.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and warming. The charred oak and dark chocolate notes linger for an impressively long time, accompanied by a pleasant, spicy tingle and a final, satisfying hint of sweet, vanilla-infused tobacco.

The Char #4 in Context: The Blanton’s Family Portfolio

Where does the Blanton’s Char No. 4 fit within the celebrated family? Here’s a quick comparison:

• Blanton’s Original Single Barrel (93 proof): The flagship. A balanced, versatile, and classic expression of the brand.

• Blanton’s Gold Edition (103 proof): Offers more intensity and spice, a step up in robustness.

• Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel (Varying Cask Strength): The uncut, unfiltered powerhouse. It shares the intense wood influence of the Char #4 but is often even more potent and robust.

• Blanton’s Char #4 (108 proof): Occupies a unique space. It is more focused on the deep, smoky, chocolatey notes from the heavy char than any other expression, making it a distinct and specialized member of the lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Blanton’s Char #4 and the Brand

Q1: What was the MSRP for Blanton’s Char #4?
A: The original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (Blanton’s Char #4 MSRP) was approximately $150. However, due to its extremely limited nature and high demand, the actual market price and Blanton’s bourbon cost for this bottle are significantly higher on the secondary market and from premium retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store.

Q2: How is Blanton’s Char #4 different from the standard Blanton’s Single Barrel?
A: The primary difference is the barrel char level and the proof. The Blanton’s whiskey​ Char #4 uses a heavier #4 char, which imparts more intense notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and charred oak. It is also bottled at a higher proof (108 vs. 93), amplifying the entire flavor profile.

Q3: Is Blanton’s Char #4 a single barrel bourbon?
A: While the standard Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is, by definition, from one barrel, special releases like the Char #4 are often small batches, meaning a select number of barrels with the same heavy char profile are married together to create a consistent batch for the release.

Q4: Where can I buy a bottle of Blanton’s Char #4?
A: As a highly limited special release from 2022, finding this bottle at a standard liquor store is nearly impossible. Your best chance is with specialized online retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store, who actively curate and source such rare bottles. Instead of searching for “Blanton’s bourbon near me,” check our inventory for available rare bourbon.

Q5: What is the average price of Blanton’s Single Barrel bourbon?
A: The price of Blanton’s single barrel bourbon varies by expression:

• Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Price: MSRP ~$65-$100.

• Blanton’s Gold Edition / Special Reserve Price: MSRP ~$100-$150.

• Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel MSRP: ~$150-$250.

• Blanton’s Char #4 / Special Release Price: MSRP starts around $150, but market value is much higher due to rarity.

Q6: Why is Blanton’s so hard to find?
A: The combination of high global demand, limited production (especially for single barrel and special releases), and the brand’s iconic status creates significant scarcity. This is true for the entire Blanton’s portfolio, from the Original Single Barrel to the coveted Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel Bourbon.

Your Source for Rare Bourbon: Rare Finds Liquor Store

The hunt for a bottle like Blanton’s Char #4 Special Release is the very essence of what we do at Rare Finds Liquor Store. We are dedicated to scouring the globe and leveraging our network to bring the most exclusive and talked-about spirits directly to you. We understand that finding a Blanton’s bourbon nearby that isn’t the standard offering can be a full-time hobby—let us do the hard work for you.

Whether you are searching for this specific Blanton’s Char #4, other Blanton’s special release expressions, or any other rare bourbon, our curated collection is your trusted resource. We are one of the best places to buy bourbon whiskey online.

Ready to Acquire a Legend?

Don’t waste time searching for “where to buy Blanton’s bourbon near me.” The Blanton’s Char #4 is a pinnacle of craftsmanship and a crown jewel for any collection.

Visit Rare Finds Liquor Store today to browse our exclusive selection of rare and allocated spirits. Contact us directly for inquiries about the availability of this and other legendary bottles.