Blanton's Takara Gold Racing Set 1998

Experience the legacy of single barrel excellence with Blanton's Gold Edition 1998, a superbly balanced straight bourbon whiskey. Hand-selected and meticulously crafted, this vintage offers an unparalleled depth of flavor and an exquisite, enduring finish. A true collector's gem and a testament to timeless bourbon artistry.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet, opening with rich caramel and toasted vanilla bean. Deeper exploration reveals notes of candied orange peel, dried apricot, and a delicate floral whisper of honeysuckle. Underlying hints of baking spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove—mingle with a faint suggestion of polished oak and rich pipe tobacco.

Palate: The entry is impressively smooth and full-bodied despite its proof, with an immediate wave of sweet butterscotch and dark chocolate-covered cherries. Mid-palate, a complex interplay emerges: warm toasted nuts, dried figs, and a robust spiciness of black pepper and ginger, perfectly balanced by a sweet undertone of maple syrup. The oak presence is refined, providing structure without bitterness, showcasing its maturity.

Finish: A long, luxurious, and evolving finish. Initially warm and spicy, transitioning to a lingering sweetness of brown sugar and marzipan. Subtle hints of leather, dark roasted coffee, and a persistent whisper of seasoned oak gently fade, leaving a satisfying, memorable warmth on the palate.

About the Distillery

Blanton's, produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, is renowned for pioneering the single barrel bourbon concept. Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a visionary in bourbon production, was key in establishing the distillery's reputation for quality. Each bottle of Blanton's is an individual barrel selection, embodying a commitment to exceptional and consistent character.