Happy New Year’s Eve! So I thought I would be a bit cliché and end the year with probably one of the most sought after bourbon whiskeys of 2021. Today’s review comes from the Buffalo Trace Distillery and is a Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey dumped on 9-16-2021, from Barrel No. 1215, warehouse H on Rick No. 6, and registered Bottle No. 87.

As stated from the website, this bourbon whiskey is: Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H, Blanton’s Original Single Barrel was once designated for ambassadors, dignitaries, and Colonel Blanton’s family and friends. Today, everyone has access to the world’s first single barrel bourbon.

Now I wouldn’t go as far as saying everyone has access to this single barrel bourbon today. In Northern Colorado, I have only come across three bottles of Blanton’s over the past two years; and yes I have bought all three with two being overpriced. This tasting bottle was priced at $135 and I did make the choice to pay secondary mark up as I had not had a bottle on my shelf for over a year.

Now let’s chat a bit about why this bourbon whiskey has such appeal. I mean that voluptuous, enticing, gorgeous bottle is all you have to see to want this bourbon immediately. But then you add that damn little collectible horse that spells out Blanton’s, I mean it’s just not fair! By all means, the Blanton’s bottle is one of the most recognizable and collectible bottles on the market today.

On another note. I wanted to give a quick shout-out, if you have not read Fred Minnick’s book “Bourbon Curious,” featured in this post’s photo, I highly recommend it. Whether you are just starting to dabble in bourbon or you are a seasoned tasting veteran, this is an amazing read and wonderful resource to all. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Fruity with notes of Strawberries and orange, vanilla, and Bubblicious gum.
• Palate: About as classic as bourbon gets with sweet vanilla and light brown sugar. Very simplistic on my palate.
• Finish: Lingering medium spice with sweet heat that hugs the back of your palate into the new year.
• MSRP: $65
• National Average: $199
• My Rating: Save it and Drink it! Now for the first time let me explain my rating as it is mixed. I would say save it, only for the fact that if a friend comes over that is not familiar with bourbon, this is a name they will know and be excited to try. But for my personal rating, I would say Drink it!

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Happy New Years! Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman