BLANTON’S Black Label Single Barrel was produced exclusively for the Japanese export market at 80 proof, Blanton’s Black Label is one of the rarest bourbon whiskeys in the world. Remarkably similar to the green-labeled Special Reserve, the main difference is an 8-year minimum aged barrel selection process (as opposed to the standard 6), which produces a more complex, robust, and refined tasting experience. Like the Takara Red edition, the Black Label is a statement piece for any serious collector and a must-try for any keen Blanton’s enthusiast.
Blanton’s Black and Red are distilled in Kentucky with the rest of the Blanton’s labels, but only distributed to the Japanese market. Even in Japan these two are harder to find. Blanton’s Black comes with a minimum of 8 years aged,the mash bill on this bourbon is Buffalo Trace’s mash bill #2, which has the higher rye content.
The nose on this bourbon is stunning. Floral notes with cherry and apple on the front, with caramel, vanilla, and oak on the back end.
The taste is smooth. A very easy drinker. Little to no burn on the tongue. Fruit and sweet on the front of the tongue make way for the oak of the 8 year aged juice. The oak is not overpowering, but it’s definitely noticeable.
The finish on this bottle was medium at best. It doesn’t linger. It’s tasty and makes a great sipping drink.
Blanton’s Single Barrel is normally 6 to 8-year-old bourbon, aged in Warehouse H at Buffalo Trace in the metal-clad warehouse at the distillery. The metal, transfers heat quicker than brick warehouses, allowing for faster aging.
This Single Cask Blanton’s is a 2020 bottling, dumped on the 2nd December 2020 and matured in barrel #1. It was matured in Warehouse H and was stored in rick number 37 and bottled at 80 US proof.
Quelen –
Smooth like the opposite side of the cushion. Nearly drank the entire jug at a time.
Hetiff –
For such a low verification this is marvelous
Ricing –
Gold SFTB and Ordinary > Dark
Carl Weiss –
I can’t tell the exact difference between this and the original green, but there is something there for sure that you can’t quite put your finger on. Excellent
Ikihao –
Smooth and caramel/vanilla notes
Herark –
Smooth and complex. A genuine sipper.
Rryose –
Not tantamount to Gold or American Single Barrel however Blantons Dark streams like nectar in Japan simple to get and still tasty.