Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel
Overall Score: 7.5/10
Overall Value: 3/5
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Sazerac Comapny Inc., Blanton's Distilling Company
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 123.8
Age: NAS
Mashbill: Buffalo Trace Mashbill #2
Color: Amber
MSRP: $150 (2024)
The Barrel Bros’ Review
Right from the nose, Blanton's Straight from the Barrel provides a great mix of aromas, including Tootsie Rolls, chocolate, and charred graham crackers. There's also a rich sweetness, akin to freshly baked chocolate brownies, combined with hints of creme brulee, custard, and a touch of maple-like woodiness. Dark red fruit notes, similar to blackberry pie, are also present.
At an impressive 123.8 proof, the taste delivers a rich, mouth-coating experience. The are flavors of vanilla wafer, followed by a nice dark red fruit profile. The palate maintains the classic Blanton's charm but with the benefit of some added proof points.
The finish is sweet and extended, featuring chocolate caramel Rollo's with notes of leather and a sadly a slight youthful note. It retains the delicious palate flavors without much evolution, which isn't necessarily a drawback given their original richness.
Priced at an MSRP of $150, Blanton's Straight from the Barrel is a sought-after single-barrel bourbon that we believe is worth the chase. While we don’t believe it justifies the secondary sale prices often seen, it offers a compelling profile for Blanton’s enthusiasts.
Though it doesn't surpass Weller Full Proof, and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof might be a more budget-friendly alternative, this bourbon's flavors and high proof make it a worthy addition to any collection. Perfect for those special occasions when you want to savor something bold and rich.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 7.5/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
This nose has many of the profiles that I love! The sweet richness reminds me of creme brulee or custard.
There is a sweet woodiness that comes across as almost maple-like, and additional dark red fruit notes that bring to mind blackberry pie.
THE TASTE:
Surprisingly the first flavor I got on the palate was a vanilla wafer, which was not something I picked up during the nose.
I do get the dark red fruit flavors which I love, but it’s more fig than the grapiness I got on the lower-proof options.
The mouthfeel is both viscous and juicy. Very Rich!
THE FINISH:
The main thing I noticed here is that the finish is long!
It doesn't add, change, or develop from the flavors of the palate, but since those were so good that’s not really a complaint as much as an observation.
BUY OR PASS?
I loved this pour! I don't think it trumps Weller Full Proof, which is a pretty comparable offering from the same distiller.
I wish the regular Blanton’s was more like this. There seems to be quite a bit lost with the proof. It is a very one-note bourbon, but it's a good note!
The Hunter Says
Score: 7.5/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
You've got Tootsie Rolls, chocolate, and those charred graham crackers you'd roast over a campfire.
It's like sniffing a batch of freshly baked chocolate brownies – seriously sweet and dark.
THE TASTE:
This is where the proof shines. At 123.8, it's hitting the sweet spot.
The richness just coats your mouth. It's not super complicated, but that's what makes Blanton's so “approachable”.
It's the classic Blanton’s profile but dialed up to 123.8 proof, which is a point at which I might actually shell out the money for a bottle.
THE FINISH:
Sweet, with hints of chocolate caramel Rollo's.
There's a touch of youthfulness and a bit of leather sneaking in, which might be a sad conclusion for some.
BUY OR PASS?
If you're on the hunt for a bottle of Blanton’s, this is definitely worth chasing down. But let's be real, it's not worth the crazy prices people are willing to pay.
For something equally delicious and easier on the wallet, I'd steer you towards Elijah Craig Barrel Proof any day.
