Blanton's Single Barrel 1989

Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with this exceptional Blanton's 1989 Vintage Single Barrel. Hand-selected from Warehouse H, Rick No. 8, this expression embodies the classic Blanton's profile elevated by time and expert craftsmanship. A true collector's gem, offering unparalleled depth and complexity.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet, showcasing classic Blanton's notes but with an added depth attributable to its vintage. Initial waves of caramelized sugar and rich vanilla bean intermingle with dried apricot and a delicate hint of orange peel. Underneath, a subtle cedar and aged oak note emerges, along with a whisper of baking spice – cinnamon and nutmeg. There's a faint, almost ethereal floral quality, perhaps honeysuckle, adding to its complexity.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and velvety, immediately coating the palate. The 93 proof provides a pleasant warmth without any harshness. Sweetness leads the charge, with pronounced butterscotch and maple syrup, quickly followed by dark fruit – dried cherry and fig – and a delightful nutty character, perhaps roasted almond or pecan. The mid-palate introduces a harmonious blend of oak spice, black pepper, and a touch of leather, suggesting significant interaction with the barrel over its maturation. A nuanced cocoa dust note appears, adding further richness.

Finish: Long, elegant, and exceptionally clean. The sweetness gradually recedes, leaving behind a persistent warmth and a complex interplay of oak char, tobacco leaf, and subtle black tea. Lingering notes of vanilla and dried fruit persist, creating a rewarding and memorable conclusion. There's a pleasant dryness that encourages another sip, leaving the palate refreshed yet satisfied.

About the Distillery

The Blanton Distilling Company, though a modern marketing construct, traces its lineage to the Buffalo Trace Distillery, a site with a rich history of bourbon production dating back centuries. Blanton's is credited with pioneering the modern single barrel bourbon movement, a concept introduced by Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee in 1984. Each barrel is hand-selected and meticulously bottled, ensuring a unique and premium experience.