For whiskey enthusiasts and collectors, few bourbons generate as much excitement as Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon. Known for its rich history, exceptional craftsmanship, and unique bottle design, Blanton’s has built a cult-like following. Among its releases, the limited edition bottles stand out as some of the most sought-after in the bourbon world. But are these rare bottles truly worth collecting?
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon specia, why its limited editions are highly coveted, and how they compare to other collector-worthy bourbons, like Revel Stoke.
What Makes Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon Special?
Blanton’s is often credited as the pioneer of the single-barrel bourbon category. First introduced in 1984 by Buffalo Trace Distillery, it set the standard for premium, small-batch whiskey. Here’s why it stands out:
- Single Barrel Quality – Each bottle comes from a single barrel, meaning no two bottles are exactly alike. This results in unique flavors with every release
- Smooth and Complex Flavor – Blanton’s is known for its deep caramel, vanilla, and spice notes, making it an exceptional sipping bourbon.
- Iconic Bottle Design – The round bottle with a horse-and-jockey stopper is instantly recognizable and adds to its collectible appeal.
Why Are Limited Edition Blanton’s Bottles So Coveted?
The scarcity of Blanton’s, particularly its limited-edition releases, has driven up demand. Here’s why collectors and bourbon lovers chase these bottles:
1. Rare and Hard to Find
Limited releases, such as Blanton’s Gold, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel, and the Special Reserve, are often difficult to find, particularly in the U.S. Their low availability makes them highly desirable among collectors.
2. Exclusive Releases and Unique Profiles
Each limited edition offers something distinct—higher proof, different aging conditions, or exclusive market availability. For example:
- Blanton’s Gold Edition – Higher proof and a more intense caramel and spice profile.
- Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel – Unfiltered and bottled at cask strength, delivering a bold and powerful whiskey experience.
- Blanton’s Special Reserve – A milder, lower-proof version, often targeted toward international markets.
3. Increasing Value Over Time
As bourbon collecting grows in popularity, certain bottles of Blanton’s have skyrocketed in value. A bottle that originally retailed for around $60 can now be seen in secondary markets for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How Does Blanton Compare to Other Collector Bourbons Like Revel Stoke?
While Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is a premium sipping whiskey, Revel Stoke takes a different approach. Known for its flavored whiskey selection, Revel Stoke appeals to a different market—those who enjoy bold and creative whiskey expressions.
While Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is a premium sipping whiskey, Revel Stoke offers a different experience with its flavored whiskey selection. Here’s how they compare:
- Whiskey Type:
- Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is a traditional single-barrel bourbon known for its smooth and rich taste.
- Revel Stoke is a flavored whiskey offering unique infused flavors like peanut butter, pecan, and cinnamon.
- Alcohol Content:
- Blanton’s typically has a higher proof (93 or more, depending on the edition).
- Revel Stoke has a lower proof (usually between 70-90), making it a more approachable whiskey.
- Flavor Profile:
- Blanton’s is known for its rich caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice notes.
- Revel Stoke provides bold, creative flavors that appeal to those who enjoy sweet and infused whiskey varieties.
- Collectibility:
- Blanton’s is highly collectible, especially the limited edition bottles that increase in value over time.
- Revel Stoke is popular but not as widely collected, as its focus is more on flavored whiskey rather than rare releases.
Conclusion
Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon, especially its limited-edition releases, is highly prized among whiskey collectors and enthusiasts. Its rich flavors, rarity, and unique bottle design make it a standout in the bourbon world. If you’re lucky enough to find one, it can be a worthy addition to your collection—whether for drinking, investing, or simply displaying.
While Blanton’s is a top-tier collector’s bourbon, brands like Revel Stoke offer a fun and accessible alternative for those who enjoy flavored whiskey. Ultimately, whether or not you should collect Blanton’s comes down to personal preference, availability, and your long-term whiskey goals.
