Ever wondered why Blanton's Bourbon is hard to find? There is one simple answer. Popularity.
One of the best Bourbons in the US, Blanton's Bourbon is a premium American whiskey made from a unique formula which gives it a flavor profile that sets it apart from the rest. This beloved drink is also made with the utmost care and precision.
These traits make it a popular choice for bourbon lovers, but it also means that it can be difficult to track down a bottle.
But before we explore why Blanton's Bourbon is so hard to find, let's find out what Bourbon actually is, and why Bourbon is so popular.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is, quite simply, American Whiskey.
Whisky (Scottish whisky has no 'e', Irish Whiskey comes with the 'e') is documented as having originated in the Celtic isles of Scotland and Ireland, first distilled by monks.
Over many years, countries have developed their own version of traditional whiskey. In the United States this is Bourbon.
What is Blanton's Bourbon?
BLANTON'S ORIGINAL SINGLE BARREL 700ML, BLANTON’S GOLD EDITION 700ML, BLANTON’S STRAIGHT FROM THE BARREL 700ML SPECIAL
Blanton's Bourbon is a well-known, highly acclaimed, American Whiskey.
As with over 90% of Bourbon's, Blanton's Bourbon is produced in the good ol' U.S bluegrass state of Kentucky.
Launched in 1984, Master Distiller, Elmer. T Lee was challenged with the task of producing a stellar bourbon, of premium quality, that other bourbon's would find hard to compete with.
Having had a long career as a respected American Whiskey distiller, Elmer. T. Lee looked back on his many mentor's and found himself thinking about how much knowledge he had acquired from Colonel Blanton, and hence the name Blanton's was adopted as the signature brand for this new premium bourbon, Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon.
Since then, Blanton's Bourbon has become an award-winning, highly respected bourbon winning over 30 awards including the latest, their 2019 Gold Medal at the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition .
Gaining this reputation has forged a popularity that has made Blanton's Bourbon one of the most in demand, hardest to find, bourbon's in the the United States.
Why Blanton's Bourbon is so Popular
Winning over 30 awards, and gaining a reputation as a premium bourbon is not the only reason Blanton's Bourbon is so popular.
The taste of Blanton's is what brings bourbon lover's back to Blanton's.
A high percentage of rye gives Blanton's Bourbon it's spicy kick, and the barrels are charred longer than most, giving the drink a deep amber color and richer flavor than many of its competitors.
Blanton's Whiskey Flavors
Blanton's Bourbon flavors truly depend on the barrel the bourbon came from, as every barrel is different. You might find hints of vanilla, honey, caramel, chocolate, nutmeg, or even coffee as you sip on Blanton's Bourbon.
The high percentage of rye in the mash bill gives Blanton's a unique flavor not found in other bourbons. The long-charred barrels also give it a deep amber color and rich flavor with oak notes.
Why is Blanton's Bourbon Hard to Find?
So far we have isolated it's popularity as the primary reason for this award winning bourbon being so in demand and as a result, hard to find, but let's get into the details and share our expert opinion on why we think Blanton's Bourbons are so in demand.
1. Single Barrel Production
Single barrel bourbon, often known as single cask bourbon, is the purest form of bourbon. Most standard bourbons are manufactured by blending many whiskeys from different casks, but single barrel bourbon has only been aged in on barrel.
Blanton's Bourbon is unique because a single barrel can produce a distinct flavor profile. Because of this technique, they are highly sought-after by whiskey connoisseurs, resulting in higher prices and higher demand than other forms of whiskey.
2. Demand Outnumbers Single Barrel Bourbon Supply
Blanton's Bourbons are rare because the demand for this single barrel bourbon far outnumbers supply.
Blanton prides itself on quality over quantity, meaning Buffalo Trace Distillery, who now manage Blanton's, can only produce minute quantities at a given period.
Although the availability has grown since 2013, the distillery has refused to specify how much, only saying "we just can't create enough". Collector demand has skyrocketed, and as a result, Blanton's quickly sells out, often with a waiting list of customers awaiting the next release.
3. Unique Design
The flavor and more unusual features of Blanton's Bourbon have earned it high praise. Each bottle topper includes a letter implanted at the base that spells out "B-L-A-N-T-O-N'-S."
There are also handwritten notes near the top of each label, including a "dump date." Blanton's is one of the few brands that include the day the barrel was emptied, which appeals to collectors who want to commemorate weddings or birthdays with specific bottles.
Types of Blanton's Bourbon Whiskey
There are many types of Blanton's Bourbon Whisky available in the market today. Some of the popular types include:
- Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon: This is the most common type of Blanton's Bourbon Whiskey. It is made from a single barrel and has a distinct flavor profile. It ranges between $159.99 to $299.99.
- Blanton's Gold Edition Straight Bourbon: This is a higher-end Blanton's Bourbon Whiskey type. It is made from a selection of aged barrels for longer periods. This results in a richer flavor profile. It ranges in cost from $249.99 to $449.99.
- Blanton's "Black Label" Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This is a special edition and rare type of Blanton's Bourbon Whiskey. It is made from a single barrel that has been aged for over 15 years. This results in an intense flavor profile. It costs between $129.99 - $329.99.
Nestor Liquor also offers other special limited Blanton's Bourbon whiskeys like:
- Blanton's Straight from the Barrel Straight Bourbon: It costs between $249.99 - $449.99.
- Blanton's Gold Blanton's +Black Blanton's Red Takara Special: It goes for $749.99 - $949.99.
- Blanton's Takara Gold: It costs $349.99 - $549.99.
- Blanton's Straight from the barrel + Blanton's Black + Blanton's Red Takara Special: This bottle costs $849.99 - $1049.99.
- Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon Miniature 50ml Shot: This type is a limited mini Blanton's bottled whiskey. It costs $49.99 - $69.99.
What is the Price of Blanton's Bourbon?
A bottle of Blanton's Bourbon varies depending on the release. Prices will also vary depending on where you purchase it. At Nestor Liquor our Blanton's Bourbon prices are low as we are an online liquor store with the overheads of a large retail store.
Generally speaking, Blanton's prices may vary roughly from $189 to $350.
Where To Buy Blanton's Bourbon?
Blanton's Bourbon can be bought in limited quantities in the United States. You can find Blanton's Bourbon at local retailers and online vendors who resell, but they are hard to come by. Lucky for you, we always have this rare Bourbon in stock!
Nestor liquor is one of the most trusted places to find Blanton's Bourbon. We carry the most rare and hard-to-find liquors. Get them delivered directly to your doorstep with fast and easy shipping.
Conclusion
As you can see, Blanton's Bourbon is a special whiskey brand loved by many people. Finding a bottle isn't easy, but we hope this article has made it easier. If you are looking for Blanton's Bourbon, your best bet is to check online retailers or specialty stores. The most trusted place to find Blanton's Bourbon is Nestor Liquor.