Attention Buffalo Trace and Blanton’s bourbon fans: Blanton’s is bringing a second expression to the US this summer called Gold Edition. Didn’t know Blanton’s made more than one bottle of whiskey? You’re not alone. Here’s what you need to know about Blanton’s mainline whiskeys.
Blanton’s Single Barrel
Old reliable. Blanton’s Single Barrel is the only Blanton’s expression that’s always been available Stateside. It’s a 93 proof single barrel product made with Buffalo Trace’s high-rye Mashbill No. 2, the same recipe used for whiskeys like Elmer T. Lee and Ancient Age. Depending on distribution and allocation figures, Blanton’s can be found at liquor stores for $65 to $85. Prices above that should be avoided.
Blanton’s Gold Edition
Blanton’s latest US-available expression is the exact same as its traditional Single Barrel expression in every way but proof, price and availability: Gold is 10 proof points higher (103 instead of 93), set to retail at $120 and will drop once annually. Expect plenty of liquor stores and bottle flippers to sell bottles at prices far, far higher than $120. In the words of Redditor /u/peaceboner, “Can’t wait to see it on the shelves of my local shitty liquor stores for $500.”
Blanton’s Special Reserve
Otherwise known as “Green Label,” Blanton’s SR is an admitted beginner’s bourbon. “At 80 proof Blanton’s Special Reserve is ideal for those new to single barrel bourbons,” the Blanton’s website reads. “The palate has a light airy feel to it.” Green Blanton’s can be found in many overseas markets, but is most readily available in Japan, where you can find it for the equivalent of $40 to $50.
Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel
The direct opposite of Special Reserve. Straight From the Barrel (often abbreviated to SFTB) is Blanton’s 6- to 8-year-old bourbon bottled at full power — 128 proof. Like Special Reserve, SFTB is available in international markets, but perhaps easiest to find in Japan, where it typically runs between the equivalent of $90 and $120. Sip with a splash of water.
