Description

Blanton’s Single Barrel Black Label Bottling Note

Blanton’s Single Barrel Black Label is a rare bourbon produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery specifically for the Japanese market. Unlike the standard green-labeled Blanton’s Single Barrel, the Black Label boasts a minimum of 8 years of aging in Warehouse H, the distillery’s unique metal-clad structure built by Albert B. Blanton himself. This extended aging process is said to contribute a slightly different flavor profile compared to its more common counterpart.

While both bourbons share a similar mash bill, some speculate that the Black Label utilizes Buffalo Trace’s recipe #2, known for a higher rye content. This may translate to a more pronounced spiciness on the palate. The tasting experience typically begins with a creamy nose offering hints of vanilla, caramel, citrus, and even a touch of dark chocolate. Floral notes mingle with cherry and apple, leading to a smooth and easy-drinking experience. Expect a pleasant sweetness balanced by oaky undertones, with a lingering finish that reflects the bourbon’s extra years in the barrel.

This Black Label bottling is bottled at 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume), which is a touch lower than the standard Blanton’s offering. Despite the lower proof, the extended aging is believed to create a richer and more complex flavor profile. Due to its exclusivity for the Japanese market and the limited production typical of single barrel bourbons, finding a bottle of Blanton’s Black Label can be quite a challenge, even within Japan itself.

Blanton’s Single Barrel Black Label Tasting Note

Nose: The Blanton’s Single Barrel Black Label offers a creamy nose with vanilla, caramel, orange peel, dark chocolate, and hints of floral and rye spice.

Palate: The palate is luxurious, with an initial burst of vanilla, citrus, cherry, and apple followed by a building oak character, subtle rye spice, and a lingering sweetness.

Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, with oak tannins, fading vanilla and caramel, and a pleasant warmth from the rye spice.

Overall: This Black Label expression showcases a richer profile than the standard Blanton’s, with balanced sweetness, oak dryness, and subtle rye spice, creating a complex and captivating experience. Despite the lower proof, the extended aging delivers depth and richness, making it a unique and special bourbon for enthusiasts.