Blanton's Gold | Whiskey Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Blanton's Gold is a product of the Buffalo Trace Distillery, historically known as the Ancient Age Distillery, located in Kentucky, USA.
- Type: It is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
- Distillation & Maturation: While specific details about the distillation process are not provided, the whiskey is noted for its single barrel selection, which suggests a unique profile for each bottle. The maturation process is hinted to be longer than typical bourbons, contributing to its distinct flavor profile.
- Age Statement: No specific age statement is provided, but the longer maturation process is implied.
- Physical Description: The whiskey is presented in a distinctive bottle topped with a horse and jockey, symbolizing Kentucky's horse racing heritage. Each bottle is individually numbered with details such as barrel number, rick number, warehouse number, and bottling date, emphasizing its single barrel uniqueness.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: Blanton's Gold offers a harmonious blend of traditional bourbon flavors with a pronounced oak spiciness and fruitiness.
- Unique Characteristics: It stands out for its strong oak influence, spiciness, and a hint of chocolate, alongside the typical bourbon notes of vanilla, caramel, and apples. The whiskey is described as having a spicy gingerbread quality with cloves, chocolate, and dried fruit notes, without the influence of cherry dark wines.
- Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique blend of flavors and higher strength (51.5% ABV) set it apart from standard bourbons.
Whisky Storytelling
- Colonel Albert Blanton: The whiskey honors Colonel Albert Blanton, a significant figure in Kentucky's bourbon history, noted for his passion for horse racing. The honorary title of "Colonel" in Kentucky is highlighted, emphasizing its cultural significance.
- Bottle Design: The bottle features a horse and jockey, reflecting Blanton's love for horse racing. The series of bottles depict different stages of a horse race, from start to finish, allowing collectors to visually represent a race with the bottles.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Kentucky Heritage: Blanton's Gold embodies Kentucky's rich heritage, celebrating its two famous traditions: bourbon and horse racing. The whiskey's story and presentation pay homage to these cultural pillars.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "It has something of a really spicy touch to it; it feels like one of these spicy gingerbreads that you get at these old town markets."
- The whiskey's exclusivity and rising popularity in Europe are noted, with its price significantly increasing over the years.
Summary
- Blanton's Gold is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon from Buffalo Trace Distillery, celebrated for its single barrel selection.
- It features a unique flavor profile with a strong oak influence, spiciness, and notes of chocolate, alongside traditional bourbon flavors.
- The whiskey honors Colonel Albert Blanton and Kentucky's horse racing tradition, with a distinctive bottle design.
- It has become highly exclusive and sought after, especially in Europe, reflecting its growing popularity and appreciation.
- The whiskey is recommended for those who enjoy a strong, spicy bourbon with a rich cultural backstory.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals with a deep appreciation for bourbon's complexity and history will find Blanton's Gold particularly appealing.
- Collectors: The unique bottle design and the concept of collecting different stages of a horse race make it a must-have for whiskey collectors.
- Fans of Strong, Spicy Flavors: Those who prefer their whiskey with a bold, spicy profile and higher alcohol content will enjoy Blanton's Gold.
- Cultural Aficionados: Individuals interested in Kentucky's cultural heritage, especially its bourbon and horse racing traditions, will find this whiskey resonates with their interests.