Blanton’s Single Barrel 2020 Special Release

Blanton’s Single Barrel 2020 Special Release: A Premium Expression of Kentucky Bourbon

Introduction: The Bottle That Changed Bourbon Forever

In the landscape of American Kentucky whiskey, certain names transcend the status of mere spirit and become cultural icons. Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is one of those names. It’s not just a whiskey; it’s a symbol of craftsmanship, a collector’s centerpiece, and the bottle that created an entire category of premium straight bourbon whiskey.

For enthusiasts, the pursuit of a standard bottle is a rite of passage. But for the true connoisseur, the hunt is for something even more special: a specific year, a store pick, or a Special Release like one from 2020. These bottles capture a unique moment in time, a snapshot of a single barrel’s journey to perfection. At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we celebrate this pursuit. This ultimate guide will explore the profound legacy of Blanton’s The Original Single Barrel, provide an in-depth tasting of what makes a 2020 release so distinctive, and equip you with the knowledge to secure your own piece of bourbon history.

The Genesis of a Legend – The Story of Blanton’s

The story of Blanton’s Bourbon is a foundational chapter in the modern history of bourbon whiskey. It begins not in 1984, when the bottle was first released, but decades earlier in the halls of the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Colonel Albert B. Blanton, the distillery’s president during the early 20th century, was known for his impeccable taste. He would reserve whiskey from a specific “honey spot” in Warehouse H—a unique metal-clad warehouse—for serving to his most esteemed guests and dignitaries. This was the birth of the “single barrel” concept, though it remained a private luxury for years.

The vision to bring this experience to the world belonged to Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee. In 1984, Lee honored his former boss by creating a commercially available bourbon sourced from one single, exceptional barrel, drawn from the very same honey spot Colonel Blanton favored. He named it Blanton’s The Original Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

This was a revolutionary act. At a time when consistency through large-scale batching was the industry standard, Blanton’s Single Barrel championed individuality. It declared that each barrel was a unique work of art, worthy of being bottled and appreciated on its own merits. This bold move not only saved the distillery during a bourbon downturn but also created the entire single barrel bourbon category we know today.

Tasting Notes – The 2020 Special Release Profile

While the core profile of Blanton’s Single Barrel is consistently magnificent, each barrel is unique. A Special Release or a “store pick” from a year like 2020 represents a barrel that was hand-selected for its exceptional characteristics. It’s the same legendary whiskey, but often with a specific flavor profile that made it stand out even among its peers.

Let’s explore the tasting notes for a hypothetical Blanton’s Single Barrel 2020 Special Release, as selected by the experts at Rare Finds. This profile embodies the classic Blanton’s character while highlighting the nuances that make a special release so coveted.

Blanton’s Single Barrel 2020 Special Release – Tasting Profile

• Proof: 93 (46.5% ABV) – Standard for the original expression.

• Age: Typically 6-8 years.

• Mash Bill: #2 (Buffalo Trace’s higher-rye recipe, approximately 12-15% rye).

• Barrel: Chosen from the prime middle floors of Warehouse H.

Nose (The Aroma):
The initial aroma is a masterclass in balance. It opens with a vibrant burst of honey-drizzled pear and dried apricot, a signature of the Blanton’s profile. This is swiftly followed by the rich, comforting scent of vanilla bean and caramelized sugar. The oak from the barrel is present but refined, offering notes of sandalwood and toasted hazelnut rather than aggressive tannins. A distinct layer of orange zest and a hint of dark cherry provides a bright, fruity complexity, while the higher-rye mash bill whispers promises of gentle spice with a touch of cinnamon and clove.

Palate (The Taste):
The first sip reveals a silky, medium-bodied mouthfeel that coats the palate gracefully. The sweet notes from the nose translate beautifully into flavors of rich toffee, creamy butterscotch, and baked apple. The rye spice then awakens, not with heat, but with a sophisticated blend of white pepper and nutmeg that perfectly counterpoints the sweetness. The fruit character deepens, evolving into a medley of fig newton and ripe peach. Throughout the experience, the charred oak provides a sturdy backbone, lending flavors of dark chocolate and a subtle leathery depth that adds immense sophistication. This particular 2020 barrel might be noted for its exceptionally long and integrated spice note.

Finish (The Aftertaste):
The finish is long, warm, and elegantly dry. The initial sweetness and fruit slowly recede, leaving behind a lingering resonance of vanilla, peppermint, and oak. The spice fades gradually, ensuring a clean and satisfying conclusion that invites you to contemplate the journey and, inevitably, take another sip. It’s a finish that lingers for minutes, a testament to the quality of the single barrel selection.

The Blanton’s Ecosystem – Beyond the Original Single Barrel

The success of Blanton’s Original Single Barrel paved the way for a family of exceptional expressions, each offering a different perspective on the same core recipe. Understanding these helps contextualize the original’s place in the pantheon.

1. Blanton’s Gold Edition: Bottled at 103 proof, this expression turns up the volume. It offers a richer, more robust version of the original’s profile, with intensified flavors of caramel, dark fruit, and spice. It’s for those who find the original almost too easy to drink and crave more power.

2. Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel (SFTB): This is Blanton’s in its purest, most unadulterated form. Bottled at cask strength (often between 120-140 proof), it is a bold, undiluted flavor explosion. The Blanton’s SFTB MSRP is higher, and its market value reflects its intensity and rarity. It’s a bourbon for experienced palates.

3. Blanton’s Special Reserve: A lower-proof (80 proof) expression primarily for international markets, offering a softer, more approachable version of the classic profile.

The Original Single Barrel remains the perfect centerpiece—the benchmark against which all others are measured.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does “Single Barrel” actually mean?
A: Unlike most bourbon whiskey brands that blend hundreds of barrels for consistency, a single barrel bourbon like Blanton’s comes from one individual barrel. This means each bottle is a unique expression of that specific cask’s interaction with the wood, its location in the warehouse, and the aging process. No two barrels are exactly alike, making each bottle subtly unique.

Q2: Why is Blanton’s so hard to find and expensive?
A: The cost of Blanton’s bourbon is driven by immense demand and limited supply. As a single barrel product, its production is inherently limited by how many exceptional barrels can be identified. Its iconic status, attractive bottle, and legendary history have created a perfect storm of popularity. The average cost of Blanton’s bourbon on the secondary market is often significantly higher than its MSRP due to this scarcity.

Q3: Where can I buy Blanton’s Single Barrel near me?
A: Finding Blanton’s bourbon near you is a common challenge. As a premier online retailer, Rare Finds Liquor Store actively sources allocations of Blanton’s Single Barrel and other rare expressions. We are a key destination for those looking to buy Blanton’s bourbon nearby without the hassle of hunting local shelves. We recommend checking our site regularly and subscribing for stock alerts. Searches like “where to buy Blanton’s bourbon near me” can yield local results, but availability is typically very limited.

Q4: What is a fair Blanton’s Single Barrel price?
A: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Blanton’s Original Single Barrel is typically between $60 and $70. However, the actual price of Blanton’s single barrel bourbon in the real world varies widely. In markets with high demand, it can easily be found for over $100. Always purchase from authorized retailers like Rare Finds to ensure authenticity and fair market pricing.

Q5: What are the letters on the horse stoppers?
A: Each bottle cap features a miniature horse and jockey in a different stage of a race. There are eight different stoppers, each marked with a letter. When collected and arranged in order, they spell out B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S. This collectible element adds a layer of fun and engagement for fans, driving the desire to find Blanton’s bourbon for sale.

Q6: How should I drink my Blanton’s?
A: Blanton’s Single Barrel is crafted to be savored. To appreciate its full complexity, we recommend enjoying it neat or with a few drops of water to open up the aromatics. A large ice cube in a rocks glass is also an excellent choice, as it slowly dilutes the whiskey, revealing new flavors over time. While it makes a sublime Old Fashioned, try it neat first to experience the unadulterated artistry of the single barrel.

The Rare Finds Promise – Your Source for Authentic Bourbon

The quest for a bottle of Blanton’s is a fundamental part of its story. At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we don’t just sell bourbon for sale online; we facilitate the journey. We are hunters and curators, dedicated to building a collection that satisfies the most discerning palates.

We understand that searching for “Blanton’s bourbon nearby within 5 mi” is often an exercise in frustration. That’s why we’ve created a destination where rarity is the standard. We ensure every bottle we sell is authentic and has been sourced through legitimate channels, giving you the confidence to buy bourbon whiskey online from a trusted partner.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of a Single Barrel

From its birth in Colonel Blanton’s private stash to its status as a global symbol of quality, Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon remains the benchmark. It is a testament to the vision of Elmer T. Lee and the timeless appeal of a perfectly executed idea. The complex tapestry of caramel, vanilla, oak, and fruit in every bottle, especially in a hand-picked 2020 Special Release, is a experience every whiskey lover deserves.

While the hunt requires patience, the reward—the uncorking of that distinctive bottle, the pour, and the first sublime sip—is what makes Blanton’s not just a drink, but a legend.

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Browse our curated selection of allocated spirits today. While Blanton’s Single Barrel is a highly sought-after item, our inventory is constantly updated with other incredible finds from the world of small batch bourbon and American whiskey.

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