Blanton’s Original Single Barrel has claimed the prestigious title of World’s Best Single Barrel Bourbon at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, confirming what many bourbon fans already knew.
Buffalo Trace’s flagship single barrel has built a cult following that’s hard to ignore. I’d drink it more often myself if my bank balance allowed. It’s a special occasion bourbon for most of us these days.
Introduced in 1984 as the world’s first commercially available single barrel bourbon, Blanton’s pioneered a category that’s now central to premium bourbon. But what exactly makes this award-winner so special? Let’s start with its revolutionary origins.
Blanton’s: The World’s First Single Barrel Bourbon
Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee created Blanton’s in 1984, naming it after former distillery president Colonel Albert B. Blanton. Lee was inspired by Blanton’s practice of selecting “honey barrels” from the middle sections of Warehouse H for special occasions and important guests.
Before Blanton’s, bourbon brands aimed for consistency by blending many barrels together. Lee’s approach was revolutionary: bottling whiskey one barrel at a time, allowing each barrel’s unique character to shine. This single barrel concept transformed the industry by showcasing bourbon’s complexity rather than hiding it.
Warehouse H itself plays a crucial role in Blanton’s distinctive profile. Its metal construction, unlike traditional wooden warehouses, creates more dramatic temperature fluctuations throughout Kentucky’s seasons. These temperature swings force the bourbon to move more aggressively in and out of the charred oak, accelerating maturation and creating Blanton’s characteristic richness.
This pioneering approach to premium bourbon set a standard that countless distilleries now follow, though many bourbon enthusiasts would argue none have quite captured the magic of the original.
The Iconic Blanton’s Decanter
Even if you’ve never tasted Blanton’s, chances are you’ve spotted its distinctive bottle behind the bar. The short, faceted, grenade-shaped decanter stands out in a world of tall, uniform whiskey bottles.
What truly sets Blanton’s apart is the famous horse and jockey stopper. Each cork features one of eight different miniature racehorse figurines, collectively spelling out B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S when completed. This clever nod to Kentucky’s thoroughbred heritage has sparked a collecting phenomenon among bourbon enthusiasts worldwide.
What impresses me most is the consistency of Blanton’s packaging. While other premium brands have redesigned bottles multiple times over the decades, Blanton’s has maintained its iconic look since the 1990s. This steadfast approach to presentation has made it instantly recognisable in bars across the globe, cementing its status as bourbon’s most distinctive silhouette.
Buffalo Trace’s Unique Mashbill
Blanton’s uses Buffalo Trace’s high-rye mashbill, known internally as Recipe #2. While mashbill talk can veer into nerdy territory, it’s crucial to understanding what makes your glass taste the way it does.
This recipe sets Blanton’s apart from Buffalo Trace’s other renowned bourbons like Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace itself, which use the lower-rye Recipe #1. The higher rye content creates Blanton’s signature balance between sweetness and spice.
The World Whisky Awards judges likely fell for Blanton’s distinctive flavour profile—rich vanilla and caramel notes complemented by vibrant orange zest, dark cherries and that characteristic rye spice finish. The single barrel approach means each bottle might vary slightly, but the core character remains consistent: a complex, well-rounded bourbon that delivers both approachability and depth for those willing to explore it.
Blanton’s: Worth The Hunt
Blanton’s success at the World Whiskies Awards confirms what collectors queuing outside liquor stores already knew: this bourbon delivers on its promises.
Finding a bottle at its MSRP remains challenging, with prices often doubling on secondary markets. If I could afford it as an everyday pour, I certainly would (though my bank manager might stage an intervention).
Have you managed to collect all eight horse stoppers yet? Or are you still chasing that elusive first bottle?
Read the full article at Blanton’s Just Won Best Single Barrel Bourbon, But What Makes It Special?
