Overview
Blanton’s is one of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s most famous bourbon brands and one of the best-known single barrel bourbons in the world. Produced in Frankfort, Kentucky, Blanton’s is recognized instantly by its round bottle, horse-and-jockey stopper, and collector appeal.
The brand is important because it helped popularize the modern single barrel bourbon category. For many drinkers, Blanton’s represents the idea that individual barrels can have distinct personalities worth bottling separately.
Brand History
Blanton’s is named for Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a longtime figure in the history of what is now Buffalo Trace Distillery. The brand was introduced in the 1980s and is widely associated with the modern commercial rise of single barrel bourbon.
Blanton’s became especially collectible during the modern bourbon boom. The stopper letters spelling “BLANTONS” and the brand’s limited availability turned it into a frequent target for collectors and gift buyers.
Who Owns the Brand?
Blanton’s is owned by Sazerac Company as part of the Buffalo Trace Distillery portfolio.
Producing Distillery
Blanton’s is produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.
Core Products
Major expressions include Blanton’s Original Single Barrel, Blanton’s Gold Edition, Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel, and market-specific releases such as Special Reserve depending on region.
Limited Releases
Blanton’s releases vary by market. Some expressions that are standard in certain international markets can be limited or unavailable in the United States. Single barrel variation is central to the brand.
Mash Bill and Production Notes
Blanton’s is a single barrel Kentucky straight bourbon. Buffalo Trace does not publicly disclose exact mash bill percentages. The brand is commonly associated with the distillery’s higher-rye bourbon recipe, but exact percentages should not be stated unless officially confirmed.
Availability
Blanton’s is highly sought after and often allocated. Availability varies significantly by state, retailer, and expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Blanton’s?
Blanton’s is made at Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Is Blanton’s single barrel bourbon?
Yes. Blanton’s is known as a single barrel bourbon brand.
Who owns Blanton’s?
Sazerac Company owns Blanton’s.
Why is Blanton’s hard to find?
High demand, limited barrel selection, and allocation make many Blanton’s expressions difficult to find.