Why Blanton's Is the Bourbon Everyone Wants - And How to Get It

There’s something about Blanton’s that makes bourbon collectors go wild. Maybe it’s the unmistakable bottle, crowned with a racehorse figurine. Maybe it’s the fact that each batch is drawn from a single barrel, making every bottle unique. Or maybe it’s just that finding a bottle at retail feels like striking gold.

Whatever the reason, Blanton’s has become one of the most sought-after bourbons in the world. But what makes it so special? And if you’re looking to add a bottle (or a full set) to your collection, which ones are worth the hunt?

Let’s take a closer look at the bourbon that started the single barrel revolution—and why serious collectors can’t get enough of it.

The Bourbon That Changed Everything

Blanton’s didn’t just appear out of nowhere—it was crafted with a purpose. In 1984, bourbon was in a slump. Elmer T. Lee, master distiller at Buffalo Trace (then George T. Stagg Distillery), wanted to bring something new to the market.

He took inspiration from Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a longtime distillery executive known for selecting the best barrels for himself and VIP guests. Instead of blending multiple barrels together—like most bourbons—Blanton’s was bottled one barrel at a time. This was the birth of the first-ever commercial single barrel bourbon.

At first, it was a niche product. But over the years, Blanton’s became a symbol of premium bourbon, leading the way for today’s obsession with limited-edition releases.

Today, Blanton’s isn’t just about quality—it’s about exclusivity. And that’s what makes it such a hot collector’s item.

The Horses That Made Blanton’s a Collector’s Dream

If you’ve ever seen a bottle of Blanton’s, you’ve noticed the distinctive horse and jockey topper. But this isn’t just for show—it’s one of the most iconic collector’s features in bourbon.

Each Blanton’s bottle is sealed with one of eight different racehorse figurines, each capturing a different stage of a horse in motion. Collect all eight, and they spell out "B-L-A-N-T-O-N’-S" at the base, symbolizing the spirit of Kentucky horse racing.

For some, Blanton’s isn’t just about the bourbon—it’s about the thrill of completing the full set of toppers. Others chase limited-edition toppers, such as the rare gold or silver versions.

But the real prize? The bourbon inside. And that’s where Blanton’s truly shines.

The Blanton’s Lineup: What to Buy & Why It’s Worth It

Blanton’s offers a range of releases, each with its own distinct flavor, proof, and collector appeal. Whether you’re after a signature pour or a showpiece bottle, here’s what makes each one special.

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel (93 Proof)

This is where it all began. Blanton’s Original delivers a silky balance of caramel, vanilla, and citrus, with a peppery oak spice on the finish. It’s approachable yet complex—perfect for both drinking and collecting.

Collectors prize it for its historical significance, as it was the first-ever commercial single barrel bourbon. It’s also the easiest Blanton’s to find (relatively speaking), making it a solid entry point for any collection.

Blanton’s Gold (103 Proof)

Think of Blanton’s Gold as the Original’s more intense, refined sibling. With deeper notes of honey, dark fruit, and toasted oak, it offers a richer, fuller-bodied experience.

Originally a Europe-exclusive, its U.S. releases are still limited, making it a must-have for collectors looking for something more elevated than the standard Blanton’s.

Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel (SFTB) (Varies, Cask Strength)

Straight From the Barrel is Blanton’s in its purest form—uncut, unfiltered, and bottled at full barrel proof. Expect bold dark chocolate, deep caramel, baking spices, and intense oak, with a long, fiery finish.

It’s the most powerful and unrestrained expression of Blanton’s, appealing to those who love high-proof bourbons and want the ultimate collector’s centerpiece.

Blanton’s Black (80 Proof) & Blanton’s Red (93 Proof) (Japanese Exclusives)

These ultra-rare Japanese exclusives offer a fascinating twist on the classic Blanton’s profile.

• Blanton’s Black is an incredibly smooth, lower-proof expression with soft caramel and light spice.
• Blanton’s Red mirrors the Original but has an extra layer of richness and depth.

Because they’re only sold in Japan, finding one in the U.S. instantly elevates a bourbon collection.

Blanton’s Special Reserve (80 Proof)

Designed as a lighter, more approachable version of the Original, Blanton’s Special Reserve offers a mellow mix of vanilla, citrus, and gentle spice.

It’s perfect for those new to bourbon or looking for a rare, smooth sipper to round out their collection.

Blanton’s La Maison du Whisky "Red Label" Singapore Edition (100 Proof, 2022 Release)

A true grail bottle, this Singapore-exclusive Blanton’s is a testament to rare single barrel excellence. Bottled at 100 proof, it offers a deeply layered profile—ripe orchard fruits, dark caramel, toasted oak, and a lingering spice finish.

As one of the most expensive and exclusive Blanton’s releases, this bottle isn’t just bourbon—it’s an investment in bourbon history.

Blanton’s Is Hard to Find—But Easy to Own

Blanton’s scarcity isn’t an accident—Buffalo Trace strictly controls production, releasing just enough to keep demand sky-high. This has turned it into a bourbon people chase relentlessly, scouring liquor stores, waiting in raffles, or paying inflated secondary prices.

But here’s the thing: You don’t have to hunt for it yourself.

At The Bourbon Concierge, we specialize in sourcing the rarest bourbons in the world—including every major Blanton’s release. Whether you’re after a hard-to-find Gold, a full set of racehorse toppers, or even a Japanese-exclusive bottle, we’ll track it down for you.

Stop chasing Blanton’s. Start collecting it.

Shop Blanton’s Now or Contact Us to secure your next rare bourbon.