Blanton's Single Barrel Collector's Guide

Blanton's is a legendary whiskey, and for good reason. It is one of the first single barrel bourbons ever released, and it remains one of the most sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. With a stellar reputation for its unique flavor profile, Blanton's has earned its place as a beloved icon in the world of bourbon.

In this blog post, we will explore the world of Blanton's bourbon. We will delve deep into the unique expressions that make this brand legendary, uncover elusive and rare bottles coveted by enthusiasts, discern the intricate flavor profiles that define Blanton's bourbon, and explore the art of storing and handling these precious gems.

Whether you're a seasoned Blanton's collector or a whiskey enthusiast looking to learn more about the iconic brand, read on to learn all the essentials you need to know about Blanton's.

The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Rare Blanton's Bottles

Blanton’s collectors guide

For many Blanton's collectors, the thrill of the hunt is just as exciting as savoring the whiskey itself. Blanton's is a small-batch bourbon, meaning it's produced in limited quantities. As a result, finding a rare bottle of Blanton's is not only a challenge but also a rewarding experience.

One of the most unique aspects of collecting Blanton's is the hunt for the elusive stopper letters. Each bottle's distinctive round stopper features a letter from the word ''BLANTONS,'' with a horseshoe design at the top. The thrill comes from collecting all eight stoppers to spell out the full name. 

But there's a caveat. While the hunt might be thrilling, collecting stoppers with all eight letters takes time and patience. So, if you set out to find rare Blanton's bottles, here are some tips to help you complete your collection:

  • Get to know your local liquor store owners: Liquor store owners are often privy to when rare bottles are coming in. If you become a regular customer and build a rapport with the owners, they may be more inclined to inform you when they have rare bottles in stock.
  • Identify specialized online bourbon stores: Reputable online stores that sell rare bourbon, like Nestor Liquor, are another excellent place to begin your hunt.
  • Attend whiskey auctions and events: Whiskey auctions and events are another excellent place to find rare bottles. Just bear in mind that bottles at these events often come at a hefty price.

Tasting the Rarity: Savoring Unique Blanton's Expressions

Once you find and purchase a rare Blanton's bottle, you shouldn't just drink it. You should savor it to appreciate the nuances of its rich flavor. 

Here are some tips for tasting rare Blanton's expressions:

  • Choose the right glassware:
  • Blanton’s collectors guide

    Opt for a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas of the whiskey.

  • Swirl and whiff:
  • Blanton’s collectors guide
    Gently swirl the glass to release the aromas, then take in the scents with short sniffs.
  • Sip slowly:
  • Blanton’s collectors guide
    Take small sips of the whiskey and let it linger on your tongue to savor the different flavors.
  • Add a few drops of water:
  • Blanton’s collectors guide
    Add a dash of water to open up the whiskey and reveal additional flavors and aromas, if desired.
  • Chew the whiskey: Chew the whiskey delicately to fully appreciate its taste and texture.
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    Besides these tips, pairing rare Blanton's expressions with food, keeping a tasting journal, and enjoying the bourbon with close friends and family can enhance the drinking experience.

    Navigating the Secondary Market: Buying and Selling Collectible Blanton's

    The secondary market is a place where you can buy and sell rare whiskeys such as Blanton's. Whether you're looking to add a rare bottle to your collection or part with one, here are some key tips to remember when buying and selling Blanton's on the secondary market:

    Buying Rare Blanton's

  • Conduct thorough research: Before purchasing a bottle of Blanton's, thoroughly research the bottle you're interested in. Familiarize yourself with the specific expression, its characteristics, and the average market price.
  • Buy from a reputable dealer: Many rare Blanton's expressions cost a pretty penny, and they are in high demand. As a result, many online scammers are looking to take advantage of desperate collectors. Be vigilant about counterfeit bottles and buy Blanton's from reputable sellers to avoid falling prey to scammers.
  • Inspect the bottle: Before making any purchase, inspect the bottle meticulously for any signs of damage or tampering.
  • Selling Rare Blanton's

  • Research the market: Check out the prices of bottles similar to the one you want to sell on the secondary market to determine your bottle's worth.
  • Take good photos of the bottle: Capture high-quality images of the bottle to attract serious buyers and allow them to verify the bottle's authenticity.
  • Write a detailed description of the bottle: Provide detailed information about the bottle with information about its expression, age, and proof level.
  • Choose the right platform: Select a reputable platform for selling, such as dedicated whiskey auction sites or online marketplaces specializing in collectible whiskeys.
  • Building Your Blanton's Collection: A Collector's Guide

    Building a Blanton's collection can be a rewarding experience. Blanton's is a high-quality, coveted whiskey, and its different expressions can vary widely in flavor profile. 

    That said, here are a few tips for building a Blanton's collection:

  • Start with the essentials:
  • Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon
    Begin with the core range of Blanton's expressions, such as Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon or Blanton's Gold Edition Straight Bourbon. These expressions can form the foundation of your collection, and they're a great introduction to the Blanton's brand.
  • Seek limited and special releases:
  • Blanton’s Cream Label Takara Red Single Barrel Straight Bourbon or Blanton’s Takara Gold
    Once you collect the essentials, you can expand your collection with rare expressions such as Blanton’s Cream Label Takara Red Single Barrel Straight Bourbon or Blanton’s Takara Gold. Rare collections offer a deeper dive into the brand's innovation and flavor experimentation.
  • Be patient: Building a Blanton's collection takes time. So, don't get discouraged if you can't find the bottles you're seeking. Be patient and wait for the right opportunities to arise.
  • Displaying Your Prized Possessions: Showcasing Blanton's Bottles

    Once you've assembled a Blanton's collection, you'll want to display your prized possessions in a way that accentuates their beauty. Here are some creative ways to display Blanton's bottles:

  • Display your bottles on a shelf: Invest in custom-made shelves to hold your bottles securely. You can opt for shelves made from wood, glass, or metal to match your design preferences.
  • Use a shadow box: Shadow boxes can add visual appeal to your display, allowing you to arrange your Blanton's bottles like art pieces. You can add items such as stoppers, labels, and tasting notes to add flair to the shadow box.
  • Use a backlit display: Installing LED lighting behind your Blanton's bottles can enhance their visual appeal and improve the ambiance of your space.
  • Protecting Your Investment: Proper Storage and Handling

    Your collection of Blanton's bottles isn't just ordinary whiskey. It's a valuable investment that deserves care and attention. To ensure your Blanton's bottles remain in tip-top condition for years to come, consider these essential storage and handling tips:

  • Avoid direct sunlight: Exposure to direct sunlight can cause chemical reactions that alter the whiskey's flavor and color. Store your Blanton's bottles in a dark area to prevent UV damage.
  • Temperature control: Maintain a consistent temperature for your storage area, ideally between 59°F and 68°F (13°C to 20°C).
  • Humidity levels: Maintain a moderate level of humidity (around 60 to 75%) to prevent the cork from drying out or damaging the labels on your bottles.
  • Horizontal storage: Lay your bottles upright to prevent the cork from drying out and shrinking.
  • Dust and contaminants: Regularly clean and dust your bottles and storage area to keep your bottles pristine.
  • Open carefully: Use a cork puller specifically designed for whiskey bottles to uncork your bottles.
  • Avoid shaking: Avoid shaking the whiskey to avoid ''bruising'' it and distorting its flavors.
  • The Joy of Collecting: Connecting with Fellow Blanton's Enthusiasts

    Collecting Blanton's whiskey isn't just about amassing bottles. It's also an excellent opportunity to connect with other bourbon lovers. Here are some great ways to connect with other Blanton's aficionados:

  • Join online Blanton's communities: Connect with other Blanton's enthusiasts on online platforms, such as Facebook groups or Reddit communities. These platforms are a great place to learn about Blanton's and even find rare expressions.
  • Attend tasting events: Many Blanton's enthusiasts organize and attend tasting events. These events offer an opportunity to sample a variety of expressions and connect with other collectors and industry professionals.
  • Visit distilleries: If you have the chance, visit the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The distillery is where Blanton's is produced, and it's a great place to learn about its history and production. You may also get the chance to meet other bourbon collectors at the distillery.
  • Sharing the Wealth: Tasting Parties and Collectors' Experiences

    Blanton's is best enjoyed when shared with others. Hosting a Blanton's tasting party is an excellent way to share Blanton's with friends and family. Here are a few tips to help you host a successful hosting party:

  • Prepare your guests: Provide your guests with basic information about Blanton's before hosting them. The information could include the history of the iconic brand, the production process, and the different flavor profiles.
  • Provide tasting notes: Give your guests tasting notes for each Blanton's expression. This will help them to discern the different flavors and aromas in each whiskey.
  • Encourage discussion: Urge your guests to discuss their experiences with each Blanton's expression. This is a great way to gain new perspectives into the nuances of Blanton's whiskey.
  • Conclusion

    Collecting Blanton's whiskey isn't just a pastime. It's also a great way to connect with other bourbon enthusiasts and build a community. If you want to expand your Blanton's collection or start building one, check out our store for a wide variety of Blanton's expressions.

    FAQs

    How Do I Authenticate a Rare Blanton's Bottle to Ensure It's Not Counterfeit?

    Look for specific details such as the label, packaging, and bottle design. When in doubt, consult with experienced collectors or check trusted whiskey forums for guidance.

    What Is the Significance of the Stopper Letters on Blanton’s Bottles?

    The stopper letters on Blanton's bottles pay homage to Colonel Albert B. Blanton's love for horse racing. Each letter corresponds to a position in a horse race, with the final letter "S" depicting a horse and jockey crossing the finish line.

    What’s the Best Way to Store Opened Blanton’s Bottles to Maintain Their Quality?

    Once opened, store Blanton's bottles upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Also, consume the opened bottle within a reasonable time frame to prevent oxidation.

    How Much Does Blanton’s Whiskey Cost?

    The price of Blanton's varies depending on the expression and the retailer. However, Blanton's is a premium whiskey, so you'll likely pay hundreds of dollars for most expressions.

    Where Can I Find Rare Blanton’s Bottles for My Collection?

    You can find Blanton's whiskey at specialized whiskey stores, online retailers, and dedicated whiskey auctions. However, be sure to purchase your bottle from a reputable dealer like Nestor Liquor to avoid getting scammed.
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