Great channel! Keep up the good work! I always look to you all when I want to try something new but don’t know what to look for! Your input or thoughts always help me make a decision!
I love bourbon but I hate how hard it is to find good bourbons sometimes. Lists like this are good because the selections are typically available and reasonably priced. Great job guys, keep it coming!
Glad you enjoy them. I have tried to do videos that show "good bourbon" isn't always hard to find bourbon. There is always plenty of great tasting bourbon available on the shelf. Cheers!
Blanton's was my first real love in the bourbon world! I think an important thing to remember, in addition to everyone liking different things (and that it's ok to do so), is that your personal tastes will change BY THE DAY! That and the taste of bourbon will change under certain circumstances. I had Angel's Envy for the first time the other day and I didn't really care for it; it was just ok. I went back to it a few days later and LOVED it. It's now one of my favorite low proof pours (at MSRP of $50 in VA). So, yes, I've had things I like better than Blanton's, but at MSRP there are few I like better. The best whiskey is the one you like to drink!
Ditto. I started my bourbon journey because I took a sip of the Blanton and loved the finish. Which let me to angels envy. Looking to see other options to try. I’m also in VA. cheers.
Taste and price are subjective. Blanton's is good, but for the money I think there are better. The gouging of prices on it lead me to others. Whiskey Lemmings... love it.
I just stumbled on your channel. Thank you so much for the great top 10 list. But more importantly, thank you for your positive attitudes and spreading such a positive message to people everywhere. Bourbon is great and it is a wonderful way to make friends and tell stories. But I agree that I have seen too many people be too negative or hateful about others opinions on bourbon. I really appreciate your positive outlook and stance on this subject. Please keep it up
You explaining the premise behind the show and how you end it just got a life long fan in me. I’ve struggled in the past with stuff and this kind of message and idea is exactly what the world needs more of. Good on you for taking this on and doing a great job.
Thank you! I strongly recommend you join facebook.com/group/bourbonrealtalkcommunity. We have a initiative running in Sept. to pair people who need connection with those who have the capacity to give it. If we help each other the world gets better. Cheers!
WOW, I just found a bottle of Still Austin (Black Label) coming in around 118 Proof. Oh my my my, This is certainly a bottle I will keep on the shelf. Such an amazing depth and mouthfeel, not to mention the satisfactin of the higher proof. Superb flavor. I can't thank you all enough for such a great list for a mid-level bourbon drinker like me to expand my pallett and most importantly: OPTIONS!! I got into a rut, this sure opened up a door. Thanks fellas!
So glad you enjoyed it. There are so many great shelf available bourbons out there. Have you joined our free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
I agree with everyone of these picks. Great video. Russell's Reserve (SB) is easily my favorite. I live very close to New Riff. I highly recommend a tour if you're in the area. They're doing some really cool things.
I stumbled across the channel; love it. An Englishman in Belgium. I'm a Blanton fan and it is not always easy to find lots of bourbon in Belgium, but managed to get 7 bottles (!) at 70 euros each... I thought it a good deal. My tastes have improved from finding Jim Bean and Jack Daniels .... always ready to learn. Good luck with the channel.
Just started my bourbon journey and found your YT video for the noobie help. I love your philosophy and the sense of community and love you are fostering. It’s awesome to see that spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie. ❤.
Glad you enjoyed it!. If you saw the end I hope you joined our free member community. There is a lot more of those good vibes there. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Love the review! So sorry about your brother! I just started my bourbon journey but my son was diagnosed with cancer 7 years ago as a 10 year old. He beat it, but it was a hard fight. It's just as easy to love as hate. Love your channel!
Great video through and through, agree with all the picks. The aftermarket prices are killing all of us in this “hobby”..we all need to remember that price point does not equate to value or taste. Enjoy your pours!!!
Never even knew Benchmark made a full proof! Knob Creek has been solid for years! Love there barrel picks as well. Just picked up a New Riff SB, so excited to see it on your list. Cheers!
I've tasted at least two dozen whisky brands, and I haven't found one I truly love. Gentle Jack is usually my go-to because it's the one I like the most. I'm looking for a good whisky or bourbon that has a good bite,flavorful, and some good sweet notes that blend well. I've gotten to the point where I walk out of a liquor store empty-handed because I don't want want to spend 40 to 50 bucks for a whisky I have to force myself to drink.
Getting involved in a local community that hosts bottle shares would be a good idea for you to get exposure to a lot of brands for free. That why you can try before you buy.
I am so sorry about your brother. I lost my daughter several years ago and found solace in friendship and positivity. Thank you for your content. To your list, I would add Bardstown Origin series Wheated BiB, WT Rare Breed, Knob Creek 12 year, and Larceny Barrel Proof. All are at or below Blanton's SRP and far more available. Thank you for spreading the magic and community that is bourbon.
Love the video, great job. I am very new to the scene. So much to learn and taste. I am constantly watching about 4 or 5 of whiskey channels, and Blantons was one of my first. Fairly easy to get, paid about 100 bucks. Then i stumbled upon a bottle at Costco for 69$. I'm up to about 20 of the more widely praised picks. I am really enjoying the chase. Thank you for your list, my latest is a Belle Meade Reserve. Keep it up guys!
First time watching y’all. Great reviews on bourbons. I’ll never forget when I tried Blantons for the first time before it became popular (2011) I love your philosophy. I love your openness and real talk! Look forward to future shows.
@@BourbonRealTalk I don't have quite the collection you have been currently on my shelf as I look at it is Maker's 46, 1792 small batch, wt 101, rare breed, Evan Williams bib, coopers, old Forester 100 rye and Russell's reserve 10 year 90. I'm dying to try 1910 and 1920 but the price is stopping me a little.
@@ericdolby1622 They are expensive compared to some of the ones you mentioned. Maybe get one and make it for special occasions only. It will last at least a couple of years and the extra money won't hurt too bad over that period of time.
Thank goodness you added Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof. I poo pooed Jack Daniel's for years, then tried the Barrel Proof expressions and have made them a regular in my line up. Some barrel proof offerings can be hit or miss, but my experience with the JD barrel proofs is a nice consistency. Also, I'm bummed I never made it to Still Austin on my last Texas visit. Hit Garrison Brothers, Milan & Greene, and Andalusia.
I love watching you guys. Randy your channels means a lot as your message resonates with me. We have too much hate and we need to show more love. Thanks my brother and I hope to share a bottle with you one day. 🥃
I really really love your guys content. Thank you for getting me to go and try different bourbons and whiskies. I have expanded my palate thanks to you guys and several other channels. There is actually 2 other ones I would choose over Blantons you guys didn’t bring up. Woodford reserve double oaked , and the Kentucky derby that is the anniversary one every year as well from them. So good and delicious. I am on the scout for the 1792 Fullproof, New Riff, and any of the Penelope’s. Then of course the Eagle Rare, EH Taylor, Weller products too. Cheers mates. Really enjoyed this video.
Back in August 2021 I moved my daughter from Nashville up to college at Pitt. While I was up there one of the parents introduced me to Russells Reserve. Man, that is a really good bourbon. I have since added it to my collection.
I was Recently searching for my next pick. While at the store there was a guy looking for Blantons. I said to him good luck. Then talked him into 1792 bib.
Absolutely love the energy, appreciate the suggestions, and just want to ask a question. What are your feelings about Basil Haden? I think I already know your your response because I believe it is only 80 proof. But honestly I really enjoy it and perhaps its because I am a bourbon newbie but I would love to know if you have any suggestions that newbies like me might find enjoyable?
I love BH. It was one of my first bottles of whiskey when I got started. You guessed correctly that I do not drink it often these days because my palate has become more accustomed to higher proof, but that doesn't mean it isn't good. When I do surveys about what people's gateway bourbon was, the number one answer is usually BH for a good reason. It tastes great and is approachable at 80 proof. Depending on how you want to expand your palate you could do it one of a few different ways. If you want to move toward higher proof offerings you might try Old Grandad BiB or 114. They are the same whiskey as BH, just higher proof and lower costs. If you want to expand your palate without breaking the bank. I would pick up an Evan Williams BiB. I have a lot of videos on suggestions for purchases. Here are a few: ua-cam.com/video/CcO42uwaqB8/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/R2p4W-jDJaI/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/8A71ZaH4DZ0/v-deo.html
I have everyone of these on my bar but the Texas one. Spot on with the Maker's Cask Strength, the only wheated bourbons I've ever thought much of are the cask strengths.
Hit the nail on the head with these! Only thing I’d change or add is some other honorable mentions; Knob Creek SiB, Penelope 4 grain BS, Smoke Wagon Uncut, Noah’s Mill, & Belle Meade Reserve. So many great whiskeys out there sitting on the shelf’s. No need to ever chase or pay over msrp on btac
When I said KC I said ALL KC, so SiB was included. I had some SiB to show, but I wanted to make the point that even their base level product is more full flavored without finding anything special. I am not very familiar with Penelope. I have had it and liked it, but not something I keep on the shelves. SWUU is really hard to find, so I would not have included it in this list. Tried to find things that are reasonably available. I get that availability varies per region, but all the bottles mentioned are not too difficult for me to get where I live. NM and BMR both could have made the list, I just happened to not have a bottle on my shelves. Thanks for the feedback.
Damn, dude, you got good taste. I've never had the Penelope, but everything else in your list is top notch in my opinion. Noah's Mill rarely gets any love nowadays, but it's one of my favorites.
I really like blantons, last bottle i had wasnt as smooth as it used to be i felt. Had 1792, not bad, elijah craig my father liked, at first i did not enjoy Woodford Reserve, but recently iv been enjoying it alot more. But to be honest, my go to and favorite is good old 4 Roses.
I have tried all of them but 2 and in my opinion Four Roses Single barrel is a very good bourbon 🥃 it is my go to because I can find it.A lot of people down Blantons because it is difficult to find but that doesn’t mean that those other bourbons are better.
Taste is subjective, so no one (not even my channel) can tell you what tastes good. I can tell you what I think tastes good, and over time you can learn whether you should trust my recommendations or not. I think you may be missing the point of the video. The main point was Blanton's was created in the early 1980s to compete with shelf available batched product, and now that the market has grown there are countless higher proof premium brands that offer a more intense tasting experience. These 10 may not taste better for your palate, but there is no need to come onto the channel and tell other potential viewers that my recommendations are wrong, when I say in the video you have to taste for yourself.
Yall my kinda dudes i love a higher proof for the most part i love the Chattanooga whiskey 111, still haven't tries the benchmark but hearing good things
I had some Benchmark Full Proof last night. I think you will like it when you try it as long as you are not expecting a mind blowing experience. It is more like high proof Buffalo Trace than Stagg.
enjoyed this video. Taste is ALL Subjective. What you may like, I may not be able to get my head around. Subjective!!! Does not make you right, does not make me wrong. Hell, there are tastes I can't find in my whiskey that others can find. I would say that causes me to be jealous. What am I missing. I love to see reviews that say, this is just as good if not better. IF you can't find it, then move on to what you can find. Blantons' to me is all Hype. Not going to track it down or pay over $100 for the product.
Great video guys! I really appreciate the positive vibe and constructive suggestions in this great hobby. In addition….I happened to be sipping on that Jack single barrel when I watched this. Cheers🥃
I got my first bottle of Blanton's for the first time last week. I've been on the hunt for almost two years. I tried it last night and it is a good whiskey. Glad I have one finally and looking forward to trying other brands as well. My current favorite is Colorado Bourbon from wood Creek Distillery.
Great job staying positive. I’ve been on the same journey with many of those pours. Trying to be realistic on Bourbon expectations Finding wonderful bourbon with out falling for the marketing hype and high pricing on secondary market. Not going to go there.
I have been into whiskey for a very short time, just about 4 years. I have had Blantons twice. Both experiences were great. I wish I had gotten in when it was priced affordably. Love 1792, EC and Four Roses. Haven't had Benchmark, Russell's Reserve. I have an unopened bottle of the KC 9 Barrel Select. I have tried it and loved it, but haven't cracked the bottle. I love the OF 1920. I haven't had the MM Cask Strength. I love the 101. Sooooo good. People always bag on MM and call it a mixers whiskey and they wouldn't be wrong with MM or MM46, but they have so many great neat bourbons. Same with JD. Every whiskey snob turns their nose up at JD, but the barrel proof is amazing. I have noticed the price going up in the last year. I love the connective power bourbon has. It is odd how you can bond over it almost instantly. I love making connections with people with a love or even interest in bourbon. Just found this channel and subscribed! Keep on spreading the love and the love of bourbon!
Great listing. I'm lucky enough to get Blantons every 3-6 months, where im at, in Colorado. I have had more trouble finding the Old Forester for some reason. I will have to look for the Bench Mark and New Riff as i have never had them. Thanks,
I just watched a couple of your videos. I'm so torn to hear about your brother; I also went through a loss of a loved one in that manner at a young age. I absolutely love the positivity and love you are spreading. Everyone can come together despite their political views and ideologies. I have been starting to get involved in the bourbon community and learn how to navigate my local abc stores. I have had some luck with allocated bottles. I'm happy to get to see a bit what the hype is about. You really have something special going. I'd really love to chat with you some time about all of this. Sending Love from NC.
That’s a great selection I can’t get them all here in Oz, but I do love Four Roses single barrel, Makers CaskStrength is in my collection and so is Old Forester 1920.
You had me at Russell's Reserve...can't get enough of it...great bar here in Louisville is The Garage Bar in NULU. Russell's Reserve, Elijah Craig, Old Forester always in stock...
So I love the video. But just curious if you could do one of bottles you like more than Blantons that are comparable in proof. Most of your picks were way higher in proof than Blantons. Love the video and the channel
Logan, TBH I prefer the ones I picked because the are fuller flavored from the higher proof. I can't think of any low 90 proof whiskey that I think tastes as good as Blanton's.
When you called out the trolls and the lemmys I just became a fan and subscribed. Love it! Also my family is responsible for 1792. My cousin is the master distiller who created it. So I liked that pick.
You're a good man Randy. I appreciate your honest assessments. Yep different palettes will like different tastes. Yes the trolls need to go jump in the lake. Let everyone offer their opinion. No wrong answers here. How boring our bourbon world would be if everyone liked the same bourbon.
The people who demand everyone should like the same thing as them are also the one's complaining that the people who like the same thing as them are making it hard for them to buy what they like! 😂
Love the characterization of whiskey trolls and whiskey lemmings. I would say I paid way too much for my first bottle of Blanton’s and it was one of my most amazing bourbon experiences. After 4+ years of diversifying my palate, I will say that I can appreciate many of these picks. But, still love Blanton’s. My alternate list would be - Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (A121) - IW Harper 15 year - Weller Antique 107 - SmokeWagon Desert Jewel - Jefferson Ocean Voyage 17 (only this voyage) - Van Winkle Lot B And honestly for the money - Evan Williams single barrel - Bulleit Bourbon single barrel
If I ever find a bottle of Blanton’s on the shelf I’m gonna try it,but I’m so glad there are other picks that are just as good or better that are more readily available.So far on my bourbon journey,I have found that I like old forester 1920 or barreled in bond, makers 46,Angels envy,woodford double oak,etc as my favorites.I think it’s just the mystique,and the hunt that makes Blantons so desirable,I have yet to try it but hopefully one day.
Try it in a bar. Solid whiskey, just not as full flavored as a lot of lines that have been invented after Blanton's opened people's eyes to "premium bourbon".
Solid list. I haven't had some of your selections. The only one I would disagree with from my personal taste is the KC. I wouldn't ever choose the standard KC 9 over blantons. I did, however open a KC SiB select that might be one of the top 3 bourbons I've ever had.
I like this list. New Riff is a great new bourbon that I have recommended to a few people now. I also believe that it's hard to beat JD. Keep up the positivity.
I think that most people who get deeply involved in the hobby have a desire to collect all the letters. I have around 3 sets with back ups of multiple letters. I almost have a gold set.
So, you are proof guys and that is cool. Good for you, and I appreciate the inclusion of the Full proof on this list. But that all being said, I would like to hear about bottles that are better than Blantons at _similar proof_ to Blantons, instead of just a lot of higher proof stuff.
There are not enough straight bourbons at similar proofs that are not toasted or finished that consistently get picked over Blanton's in a blind to do this episode. To fully understand my logic read the description of the video. I don't want people looking for blanton's, that can't find it, to give up on the hobby. They need to know there are plenty of better drinking experiences available on the shelf that are not expensive or hard to find. I can not teach them about the plethora of available similar proof and price alternatives that are better, but there are not many...if any.
Great video 👍 would have liked to seen a few more bottles in the sub 100 proof range like Blantons. But i definitely understand being a proof hound. Cheers
I can't think of any low 90s proof whiskeys that I think taste as good as blanton's. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version. Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category. So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track. Hope all that makes sense.
@@BourbonRealTalk thanks for the detailed response. That makes total sense. Blantons is at the top of the heap of sub 100 proofers but almost any barrel proof puts it to shame. I can only really think of 2 i would put above Blantons- Old Forester 1910 and Woodford Double Oaked
I enjoy a good bottle of Blantons when I'm looking for an easy sipper. Like you, I appreciate higher proof. Would you sip on any of these before drinking a Blantons SFTB? Proof wise, that might be more comparable to the rest. Having a lot of newer whiskey drinkers at my house I've noticed they love Blantons and they don't know what Blantons is. I wish you gave 10 alternatives with proof points between 90 to 95. Cheers. Love the real talk.
TBH there really are not any below 100 proof whiskeys that taste as good as blanton's to me that are not altered in some way by finishing or toasted barrel influence. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version. Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category. So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track. If they compared the premiums to Gold or SFTB Blanton's would compete very well, for my palate.
I've had Blantons and I thought it was very good. But not good enough to go through the trouble of getting it. I personally think old forester 1920 or anything in that "year" line that they have is as good or better. Just my humble opinion. Drink what you like 😊
Not a fair comparison. I am assuming you are referring to the Blanton’s Original at 93 proof. All the bottles you have shown are great bottles but they are mostly at barrel proof. Apples to oranges
Please go read the updated video description. Around 100 of the comments have been this same sentiment, so I explained myself in the comments rather than copy and past the same response to 100 different people.
Great video, as always. Staying on the topic of Blanton’s, have you considered doing a video about bourbons that are supposedly the same mash bill as Blanton’s and even made at the same distillery? If not I got a wild crazy story of one that took me down a investigative journalist rabbit hole.
I love this show. I like Blanton’s but I think I prefer Michters to it in flavour, would probably even go Elijah Craig small batch over it. But when it’s around I don’t mind grabbing a bottle of Blanton’s single barrel.
I don't think it is an age thing. I think it is a collector thing. Some people are very susceptible to wanting to collect things. I jokingly refer to it as the collector gene.
@@BourbonRealTalk I suppose in my family I refer to the men who remember the days before JFK tax and they want their Blanton's specifically to remember the good ol days. 😊 your right as well though.
I love most of these but for me Still Austin CS has a very strange, off flavor palate, so much so that I feel like there is maybe something wrong with the bottle I got. As its opened up I've gotten more used to it. I think I'll have to maybe try another just to make sure.
I have not experienced that, but it could be a genetic anomaly too. See if you can get a sample from someone else and see if it is the same. If so it might be a compound there distillation process is throwing off that not everyone can taste. What does it taste like?
@@BourbonRealTalk it has a real sour medicinal taste that dominates the middle. I do have a different palate that I've noticed over my life with a susceptibility to metallic tastes. Another popular bourbon that tastes different is Lost Monarch which has a very strong hoppy beer flavor to me. Its so strange in these two as opposed to bourbons that I don't like that I'm more ready to assume something is wrong with those specific bottles I have.
@@BourbonRealTalk No, I really like 1792 however I did notice that the 1792 small batch doesn't seem to taste as good to me now that I have a 1792 Full Proof Store pick.
@@applecrow8 Interesting. 1792 is the pour that I consistently get medicinal notes on. There is a compound that not everyone can taste that comes across as dirt or musty. Not sure what your thing would be, might be genetic.
💯 agree with the list and a learned a couple that I now have on my list (Still Austin and New Riff). I am on the hunt for some solid TX offerings after recently migrating to Houston. I have had countless pours of Blantons over the years but never owned a bottle. I can say that I am certainly a fan and I think it was said perfectly that "if you don't like Blantons, you don't like bourbon". Simple. That said, I also say the same about Wild Turkey 101. It is such a great representation of Bourbon in my opinion. Thanks for this stellar list that is not only educational, but was presented in the least pretentious way that I have witnessed in such a long time. Thank you brothers!
Mt Four go to whiskey's number 1: Old 55 kind of hard to get around here but is priced between $90-110 number 2: Wild Turkey Rare Breed easily available $50 Number 3: Whistle Pig 12 Years easy to get but it is $160 Number 4 Dewars 12 And Johnnie Walker Black Price between $32-38
I used to drink a lot of Blanton's before allocation. However in my subsequent and frustrated searches after allocation I discovered so many other bourbons that were as good and even some that are better. Don't get me wrong if you offer me a snifter of Blanton's I'll gladly take and enjoy every sip.
Great vid, not a big fan of blantons - have only tried one bottle which I've not finished yet. Its OK, just not as exciting as others. Good list, I'd add a woodford reserve double oaked, definitely the best of the lower proofs.
Sooooooo happy about the last add of the Jack. I was sipping it while watching thinking “guys… this is amazing and should be on the list!” Lo and behold it got on the list.
These are all great choices. As far as price and availability, you nailed it. Unfortunatly I think the people who hunt blantons are probably the same people who enjoy a lower proof. I think listing more 90-100proof options would be more on par with the blantons playing field. cheers
That was part of the point I was driving at. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version. Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category. So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track.
I really, really appreciate the positivity of this channel. The bourbon content is great, but secondary to the positivity. Thank you!!
I appreciate that! Cheers! Have you joined the free member community yet? Tons of positivity over there. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Great channel! Keep up the good work! I always look to you all when I want to try something new but don’t know what to look for! Your input or thoughts always help me make a decision!
I love bourbon but I hate how hard it is to find good bourbons sometimes. Lists like this are good because the selections are typically available and reasonably priced. Great job guys, keep it coming!
Glad you enjoy them. I have tried to do videos that show "good bourbon" isn't always hard to find bourbon. There is always plenty of great tasting bourbon available on the shelf. Cheers!
Blanton's was my first real love in the bourbon world! I think an important thing to remember, in addition to everyone liking different things (and that it's ok to do so), is that your personal tastes will change BY THE DAY! That and the taste of bourbon will change under certain circumstances. I had Angel's Envy for the first time the other day and I didn't really care for it; it was just ok. I went back to it a few days later and LOVED it. It's now one of my favorite low proof pours (at MSRP of $50 in VA). So, yes, I've had things I like better than Blanton's, but at MSRP there are few I like better. The best whiskey is the one you like to drink!
Amen!
Ditto. I started my bourbon journey because I took a sip of the Blanton and loved the finish. Which let me to angels envy. Looking to see other options to try. I’m also in VA. cheers.
Taste and price are subjective.
Blanton's is good, but for the money I think there are better. The gouging of prices on it lead me to others.
Whiskey Lemmings... love it.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I just stumbled on your channel. Thank you so much for the great top 10 list. But more importantly, thank you for your positive attitudes and spreading such a positive message to people everywhere. Bourbon is great and it is a wonderful way to make friends and tell stories. But I agree that I have seen too many people be too negative or hateful about others opinions on bourbon. I really appreciate your positive outlook and stance on this subject. Please keep it up
Thank you for the encouragement. If you are on Facebook I would like you to join facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
You explaining the premise behind the show and how you end it just got a life long fan in me. I’ve struggled in the past with stuff and this kind of message and idea is exactly what the world needs more of. Good on you for taking this on and doing a great job.
Thank you! I strongly recommend you join facebook.com/group/bourbonrealtalkcommunity. We have a initiative running in Sept. to pair people who need connection with those who have the capacity to give it. If we help each other the world gets better. Cheers!
1792 FP and Old Forester 1920 are the best that I’ve personally had. Wild Turkey 101 is my fav value bourbon
Could not argue with any of that! Cheers!
Have you tried rare breed yet? It’s fantastic at the higher proof!
@@brianstuart4203 yes! Very good! 😃
WOW, I just found a bottle of Still Austin (Black Label) coming in around 118 Proof. Oh my my my, This is certainly a bottle I will keep on the shelf. Such an amazing depth and mouthfeel, not to mention the satisfactin of the higher proof. Superb flavor. I can't thank you all enough for such a great list for a mid-level bourbon drinker like me to expand my pallett and most importantly: OPTIONS!! I got into a rut, this sure opened up a door. Thanks fellas!
So glad you enjoyed it. There are so many great shelf available bourbons out there.
Have you joined our free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
I appreciate you keeping your brother’s memory alive with this channel!❤
Thank you and thank you for being here with us!
I agree with everyone of these picks. Great video. Russell's Reserve (SB) is easily my favorite. I live very close to New Riff. I highly recommend a tour if you're in the area. They're doing some really cool things.
One of the best new distilleries IMO.
My Russell’s reserve single barrel store pick is so good I really don’t need to search for any more sippers. So glad I finally got into WT products.
No matter what I do, I always go back to Old Forester 1910
I stumbled across the channel; love it. An Englishman in Belgium. I'm a Blanton fan and it is not always easy to find lots of bourbon in Belgium, but managed to get 7 bottles (!) at 70 euros each... I thought it a good deal. My tastes have improved from finding Jim Bean and Jack Daniels .... always ready to learn. Good luck with the channel.
So glad you enjoyed it! Have you joined the free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Just started my bourbon journey and found your YT video for the noobie help. I love your philosophy and the sense of community and love you are fostering. It’s awesome to see that spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie. ❤.
Welcome to the channel! Happy to have you here.
Man the end of this episode definitely pulled my heart strings. Thank you for sharing this, and thank you for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it!. If you saw the end I hope you joined our free member community. There is a lot more of those good vibes there. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Love the review! So sorry about your brother! I just started my bourbon journey but my son was diagnosed with cancer 7 years ago as a 10 year old. He beat it, but it was a hard fight. It's just as easy to love as hate. Love your channel!
Thank you! Have you joined our free member community? You attitude would be a welcome addition. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
My favorite part of the video. “This is our opinion. So, that doesn’t make us right and you wrong or you wrong and us right”.
If you watch my face I realized I didn't reverse it, but it was too late. If you record enough you will find you say all kinds of stupid shit 😂
@@BourbonRealTalk it made me chuckle! I didn’t realize the Benchmark Full Proof info. Need to find a bottle and give it a try!
Great video through and through, agree with all the picks. The aftermarket prices are killing all of us in this “hobby”..we all need to remember that price point does not equate to value or taste. Enjoy your pours!!!
We have a double blind tasting video coming out that will prove this!
Never even knew Benchmark made a full proof! Knob Creek has been solid for years! Love there barrel picks as well. Just picked up a New Riff SB, so excited to see it on your list. Cheers!
Nice snag!
They also make small batch, single barrel, top floor, bonded
@@rthilson came here to say this.
Also Mash n Drum did a review of the benchmark lineup.
@@jackwoodford519 yes I did the single barrel and the bonded are pretty good small batch I’m not a fan
What a great explanation of how people can be! I have been a teacher for 25 years… Bravo on your pre-disclaimer! Keep it up gents.
Kind regards!
Wow, thank you!
I've tasted at least two dozen whisky brands, and I haven't found one I truly love. Gentle Jack is usually my go-to because it's the one I like the most. I'm looking for a good whisky or bourbon that has a good bite,flavorful, and some good sweet notes that blend well. I've gotten to the point where I walk out of a liquor store empty-handed because I don't want want to spend 40 to 50 bucks for a whisky I have to force myself to drink.
Getting involved in a local community that hosts bottle shares would be a good idea for you to get exposure to a lot of brands for free. That why you can try before you buy.
I am so sorry about your brother. I lost my daughter several years ago and found solace in friendship and positivity. Thank you for your content.
To your list, I would add Bardstown Origin series Wheated BiB, WT Rare Breed, Knob Creek 12 year, and Larceny Barrel Proof. All are at or below Blanton's SRP and far more available. Thank you for spreading the magic and community that is bourbon.
I am sorry for your loss!
Love the video, great job. I am very new to the scene. So much to learn and taste. I am constantly watching about 4 or 5 of whiskey channels, and Blantons was one of my first. Fairly easy to get, paid about 100 bucks. Then i stumbled upon a bottle at Costco for 69$. I'm up to about 20 of the more widely praised picks. I am really enjoying the chase. Thank you for your list, my latest is a Belle Meade Reserve. Keep it up guys!
Cheers!
Unfortunately i dont know anyone that drinks bourbon 🤦♂️. Very Nice to have you folks 🥃 Cheers. RC
I am glad we would be there for you.
First time watching y’all. Great reviews on bourbons. I’ll never forget when I tried Blantons for the first time before it became popular (2011) I love your philosophy. I love your openness and real talk! Look forward to future shows.
Glad you enjoyed it. I would like to personally invite you to our free member community. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Your last piece about your brother was great. Sorry for your loss and happy for your gains. Keep it up. Thanks for the content.
Thank you!
Damn you could name 30 that are not only better but are less expensive as well.
It's always good to have options and personal preferences when it comes to whiskey. What are some of your favorite affordable bottles?
@@BourbonRealTalk I don't have quite the collection you have been currently on my shelf as I look at it is Maker's 46, 1792 small batch, wt 101, rare breed, Evan Williams bib, coopers, old Forester 100 rye and Russell's reserve 10 year 90. I'm dying to try 1910 and 1920 but the price is stopping me a little.
@@ericdolby1622 They are expensive compared to some of the ones you mentioned. Maybe get one and make it for special occasions only. It will last at least a couple of years and the extra money won't hurt too bad over that period of time.
Thank goodness you added Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof. I poo pooed Jack Daniel's for years, then tried the Barrel Proof expressions and have made them a regular in my line up. Some barrel proof offerings can be hit or miss, but my experience with the JD barrel proofs is a nice consistency. Also, I'm bummed I never made it to Still Austin on my last Texas visit. Hit Garrison Brothers, Milan & Greene, and Andalusia.
Maybe next time. SSW is planning a big even down there in the spring. Maybe come in for that.
Just got into bourbon and love your reviews. Great education and appreciate your style! Cheers
Awesome, thank you! Did you join BRTC?
I love watching you guys. Randy your channels means a lot as your message resonates with me. We have too much hate and we need to show more love. Thanks my brother and I hope to share a bottle with you one day. 🥃
Same! Have you joined our free member community. We will be coordinating meet up in there. facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Just love the history and significance behind burbons.
I geek out on history bit, so I try to include a bit in every episode.
I really really love your guys content. Thank you for getting me to go and try different bourbons and whiskies. I have expanded my palate thanks to you guys and several other channels. There is actually 2 other ones I would choose over Blantons you guys didn’t bring up. Woodford reserve double oaked , and the Kentucky derby that is the anniversary one every year as well from them. So good and delicious. I am on the scout for the 1792 Fullproof, New Riff, and any of the Penelope’s. Then of course the Eagle Rare, EH Taylor, Weller products too. Cheers mates. Really enjoyed this video.
Thank you watching!
Back in August 2021 I moved my daughter from Nashville up to college at Pitt. While I was up there one of the parents introduced me to Russells Reserve. Man, that is a really good bourbon. I have since added it to my collection.
RR is always solid. Cheers!
I was Recently searching for my next pick. While at the store there was a guy looking for Blantons. I said to him good luck. Then talked him into 1792 bib.
All day every day, and twice on Sunday (except in TX where you can't buy liquor on Sunday 😂)
Absolutely love the energy, appreciate the suggestions, and just want to ask a question. What are your feelings about Basil Haden? I think I already know your your response because I believe it is only 80 proof. But honestly I really enjoy it and perhaps its because I am a bourbon newbie but I would love to know if you have any suggestions that newbies like me might find enjoyable?
I love BH. It was one of my first bottles of whiskey when I got started. You guessed correctly that I do not drink it often these days because my palate has become more accustomed to higher proof, but that doesn't mean it isn't good. When I do surveys about what people's gateway bourbon was, the number one answer is usually BH for a good reason. It tastes great and is approachable at 80 proof. Depending on how you want to expand your palate you could do it one of a few different ways. If you want to move toward higher proof offerings you might try Old Grandad BiB or 114. They are the same whiskey as BH, just higher proof and lower costs. If you want to expand your palate without breaking the bank. I would pick up an Evan Williams BiB. I have a lot of videos on suggestions for purchases. Here are a few:
ua-cam.com/video/CcO42uwaqB8/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/R2p4W-jDJaI/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/8A71ZaH4DZ0/v-deo.html
I have everyone of these on my bar but the Texas one. Spot on with the Maker's Cask Strength, the only wheated bourbons I've ever thought much of are the cask strengths.
Thanks for the validation! Cheers!
That's generally what comes outta me too when I drink bourbon. I love you man!
❤️
Hit the nail on the head with these! Only thing I’d change or add is some other honorable mentions; Knob Creek SiB, Penelope 4 grain BS, Smoke Wagon Uncut, Noah’s Mill, & Belle Meade Reserve.
So many great whiskeys out there sitting on the shelf’s. No need to ever chase or pay over msrp on btac
When I said KC I said ALL KC, so SiB was included. I had some SiB to show, but I wanted to make the point that even their base level product is more full flavored without finding anything special. I am not very familiar with Penelope. I have had it and liked it, but not something I keep on the shelves. SWUU is really hard to find, so I would not have included it in this list. Tried to find things that are reasonably available. I get that availability varies per region, but all the bottles mentioned are not too difficult for me to get where I live. NM and BMR both could have made the list, I just happened to not have a bottle on my shelves. Thanks for the feedback.
Damn, dude, you got good taste.
I've never had the Penelope, but everything else in your list is top notch in my opinion.
Noah's Mill rarely gets any love nowadays, but it's one of my favorites.
Smoke wagon uncut is fantastic
All those are great. I will always buy a Stellum store pick as well. Delicious.
I really like blantons, last bottle i had wasnt as smooth as it used to be i felt. Had 1792, not bad, elijah craig my father liked, at first i did not enjoy Woodford Reserve, but recently iv been enjoying it alot more. But to be honest, my go to and favorite is good old 4 Roses.
Hadn't had Benchmark full proof. I was surprised! I'm a fan. Strong and sweet...and less than 20 bucks by me. I like to blend it with Rebel 100.
Nice! I have been a fan since it came out!
I do like to troll Wes in general, but I won't on this video. Good one and great takes. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed it
The Party Source! We used to come across the river in college and buy BIG cans of beers!
Nice! Cheers!
I have tried all of them but 2 and in my opinion Four Roses Single barrel is a very good bourbon 🥃 it is my go to because I can find it.A lot of people down Blantons because it is difficult to find but that doesn’t mean that those other bourbons are better.
Taste is subjective, so no one (not even my channel) can tell you what tastes good. I can tell you what I think tastes good, and over time you can learn whether you should trust my recommendations or not. I think you may be missing the point of the video. The main point was Blanton's was created in the early 1980s to compete with shelf available batched product, and now that the market has grown there are countless higher proof premium brands that offer a more intense tasting experience. These 10 may not taste better for your palate, but there is no need to come onto the channel and tell other potential viewers that my recommendations are wrong, when I say in the video you have to taste for yourself.
Yall my kinda dudes i love a higher proof for the most part i love the Chattanooga whiskey 111, still haven't tries the benchmark but hearing good things
I had some Benchmark Full Proof last night. I think you will like it when you try it as long as you are not expecting a mind blowing experience. It is more like high proof Buffalo Trace than Stagg.
Never had stagg but i like higher octane anyway so im sure itll be good
Just stumbled on this video, Great Job! Love your videos. So Sorry for your Loss.
Thank you!
enjoyed this video. Taste is ALL Subjective. What you may like, I may not be able to get my head around. Subjective!!! Does not make you right, does not make me wrong. Hell, there are tastes I can't find in my whiskey that others can find. I would say that causes me to be jealous. What am I missing. I love to see reviews that say, this is just as good if not better. IF you can't find it, then move on to what you can find. Blantons' to me is all Hype. Not going to track it down or pay over $100 for the product.
Exactly! There is plenty of great whiskey to be had!
Great video guys! I really appreciate the positive vibe and constructive suggestions in this great hobby. In addition….I happened to be sipping on that Jack single barrel when I watched this. Cheers🥃
Nice! Have you joined the free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
I got my first bottle of Blanton's for the first time last week. I've been on the hunt for almost two years. I tried it last night and it is a good whiskey. Glad I have one finally and looking forward to trying other brands as well. My current favorite is Colorado Bourbon from wood Creek Distillery.
I like their rye! Congrats and cheers!
i love 1910 and its 93 proof! add to that bakers 107 and thats 2 bottles i would choose over blantons from my shelf.
I wouldn't put the 1910 in a list for blanton's since it is toasted barrel finish. Baker's might be a good one, but I didn't have it on my shelf.
Good picks! I agree with most ( if not all). The one I think could be added in your top 10 is Woodford Double Oak😉!
I left it off because it is toasted barrel finish. I didn't think comparing finished whiskey to Blanton's was not fair.
Ok, got it…makes since!
Great job staying positive. I’ve been on the same journey with many of those pours. Trying to be realistic on Bourbon expectations Finding wonderful bourbon with out falling for the marketing hype and high pricing on secondary market. Not going to go there.
You can do it! There are plenty of great bourbons on the shelf and relationships pay off to get the hard to find stuff.
Great video, and nice to see a good number of bottles that are readily available in the U.K.
I tried to pick bottles that were widely available. Glad you liked it.
I have been into whiskey for a very short time, just about 4 years. I have had Blantons twice. Both experiences were great. I wish I had gotten in when it was priced affordably. Love 1792, EC and Four Roses. Haven't had Benchmark, Russell's Reserve. I have an unopened bottle of the KC 9 Barrel Select. I have tried it and loved it, but haven't cracked the bottle. I love the OF 1920. I haven't had the MM Cask Strength. I love the 101. Sooooo good. People always bag on MM and call it a mixers whiskey and they wouldn't be wrong with MM or MM46, but they have so many great neat bourbons. Same with JD. Every whiskey snob turns their nose up at JD, but the barrel proof is amazing. I have noticed the price going up in the last year.
I love the connective power bourbon has. It is odd how you can bond over it almost instantly. I love making connections with people with a love or even interest in bourbon. Just found this channel and subscribed! Keep on spreading the love and the love of bourbon!
Right on! Did you join the free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Ecbp is my favorite. Good choice guys
The 1920 as well.
Awesome! Glad you liked it! Have you joined the member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Great listing. I'm lucky enough to get Blantons every 3-6 months, where im at, in Colorado. I have had more trouble finding the Old Forester for some reason. I will have to look for the Bench Mark and New Riff as i have never had them. Thanks,
That is awesome! Thanks for watching.
I just watched a couple of your videos. I'm so torn to hear about your brother; I also went through a loss of a loved one in that manner at a young age. I absolutely love the positivity and love you are spreading. Everyone can come together despite their political views and ideologies. I have been starting to get involved in the bourbon community and learn how to navigate my local abc stores. I have had some luck with allocated bottles. I'm happy to get to see a bit what the hype is about. You really have something special going. I'd really love to chat with you some time about all of this. Sending Love from NC.
Thank you for the support. Did you join BRTC? You can tag me in there, but if you want to talk PM me.
@Bourbon Real Talk Sorry this got lost in my feed... No I haven't but I certainly will
That’s a great selection I can’t get them all here in Oz, but I do love Four Roses single barrel, Makers CaskStrength is in my collection and so is Old Forester 1920.
Glad you enjoyed it!
You had me at Russell's Reserve...can't get enough of it...great bar here in Louisville is The Garage Bar in NULU. Russell's Reserve, Elijah Craig, Old Forester always in stock...
Nice! We may swing by when we come at the end of the month.
@@BourbonRealTalk I will definitely join you!!!
Some great picks here. New Riff, Knob Creek, EC, and some values. 🥃
Glad you liked it!
So I love the video. But just curious if you could do one of bottles you like more than Blantons that are comparable in proof. Most of your picks were way higher in proof than Blantons. Love the video and the channel
Logan, TBH I prefer the ones I picked because the are fuller flavored from the higher proof. I can't think of any low 90 proof whiskey that I think tastes as good as Blanton's.
@@BourbonRealTalk makes complete sense also thought it was a very big compliment to Blantons that it was all full proof or higher proof stuff.
Love your review. Even more, I love what you stand for - Love! Well done fellas.
Glad you enjoyed it
When you called out the trolls and the lemmys I just became a fan and subscribed. Love it! Also my family is responsible for 1792. My cousin is the master distiller who created it. So I liked that pick.
Are you saying you are related to Thomas Moore?
You're a good man Randy. I appreciate your honest assessments. Yep different palettes will like different tastes. Yes the trolls need to go jump in the lake. Let everyone offer their opinion. No wrong answers here. How boring our bourbon world would be if everyone liked the same bourbon.
The people who demand everyone should like the same thing as them are also the one's complaining that the people who like the same thing as them are making it hard for them to buy what they like! 😂
Such a powerful and uplifting message at the end. I love you too
Thank you! I love it when people say it back!
Love the characterization of whiskey trolls and whiskey lemmings.
I would say I paid way too much for my first bottle of Blanton’s and it was one of my most amazing bourbon experiences.
After 4+ years of diversifying my palate, I will say that I can appreciate many of these picks. But, still love Blanton’s.
My alternate list would be
- Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (A121)
- IW Harper 15 year
- Weller Antique 107
- SmokeWagon Desert Jewel
- Jefferson Ocean Voyage 17 (only this voyage)
- Van Winkle Lot B
And honestly for the money
- Evan Williams single barrel
- Bulleit Bourbon single barrel
Agee with all of these. Although some are as hard to find as blanton's!
If I ever find a bottle of Blanton’s on the shelf I’m gonna try it,but I’m so glad there are other picks that are just as good or better that are more readily available.So far on my bourbon journey,I have found that I like old forester 1920 or barreled in bond, makers 46,Angels envy,woodford double oak,etc as my favorites.I think it’s just the mystique,and the hunt that makes Blantons so desirable,I have yet to try it but hopefully one day.
You should just buy a pour in a bar. That way you will see what it is all about and can come to your own conclusion.
Its in a lot of bars. Try some at one sometime
Had to 👍 the voice on the commercial...niiiice.😉..my first blantons disappointed me. Very hesitant to get another.
Sorry to hear that. Thanks for watching!
Great list, I have not had a chance to get Blantons so this list is a great help..
Try it in a bar. Solid whiskey, just not as full flavored as a lot of lines that have been invented after Blanton's opened people's eyes to "premium bourbon".
Solid list. I haven't had some of your selections. The only one I would disagree with from my personal taste is the KC. I wouldn't ever choose the standard KC 9 over blantons. I did, however open a KC SiB select that might be one of the top 3 bourbons I've ever had.
Fair enough! Cheers!
I like this list. New Riff is a great new bourbon that I have recommended to a few people now. I also believe that it's hard to beat JD. Keep up the positivity.
Thank you for the positive feedback. Have you joined the free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Best part was the disclaimers! 🥃
😂
0:39 "That doesn't make us right and you wrong, or you wrong and us right..." 😂
If you go back and watch again you can see in my eyes that I realized I fucked up right after I said it. Sometimes you just have to roll with it😂
@@BourbonRealTalk I enjoyed the episode, and I love the channel philosophy. Good work guys!
What happened to the Knob Creek Single Barrel 120 proof in Ohio?
Miss that one.
That is a good one. Sorry it is not as available!
I heard the Four Roses single barrels can be 70$ and had to check the date on the video. I wish they were 70$, or even available at 100$
Prices have definitely gone up. Cheers!
I love the analogy of the penguins. You guys are awesome.
So glad you loved the analogy. It really drives home the point.Thanks for the encouragement and for watching!
Lemmings, penguins and cherry barrels!
Love it!
😂
Question when it come to Blantons is the goal to collect all the letters for a collector
I think that most people who get deeply involved in the hobby have a desire to collect all the letters. I have around 3 sets with back ups of multiple letters. I almost have a gold set.
So, you are proof guys and that is cool. Good for you, and I appreciate the inclusion of the Full proof on this list.
But that all being said, I would like to hear about bottles that are better than Blantons at _similar proof_ to Blantons, instead of just a lot of higher proof stuff.
There are not enough straight bourbons at similar proofs that are not toasted or finished that consistently get picked over Blanton's in a blind to do this episode. To fully understand my logic read the description of the video. I don't want people looking for blanton's, that can't find it, to give up on the hobby. They need to know there are plenty of better drinking experiences available on the shelf that are not expensive or hard to find. I can not teach them about the plethora of available similar proof and price alternatives that are better, but there are not many...if any.
Jumping into bourbon culture. Didn't know it was this big
Welcome down the rabbit hole 😂
Great video 👍 would have liked to seen a few more bottles in the sub 100 proof range like Blantons. But i definitely understand being a proof hound. Cheers
I can't think of any low 90s proof whiskeys that I think taste as good as blanton's. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version.
Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category.
So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track.
Hope all that makes sense.
@@BourbonRealTalk thanks for the detailed response. That makes total sense. Blantons is at the top of the heap of sub 100 proofers but almost any barrel proof puts it to shame. I can only really think of 2 i would put above Blantons- Old Forester 1910 and Woodford Double Oaked
@@jsb2277b I would not put them in a list against blanton's because they are both toasted barrel finished products, but I see you point. Cheers!
Thank you sharing your philosophy with us.
Glad you liked it! Have you joined the member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
New Rifff is in Bellevue Kentucky!!
Thank you for pointing that out. I did get that wrong.
I enjoy a good bottle of Blantons when I'm looking for an easy sipper. Like you, I appreciate higher proof. Would you sip on any of these before drinking a Blantons SFTB? Proof wise, that might be more comparable to the rest. Having a lot of newer whiskey drinkers at my house I've noticed they love Blantons and they don't know what Blantons is. I wish you gave 10 alternatives with proof points between 90 to 95. Cheers. Love the real talk.
TBH there really are not any below 100 proof whiskeys that taste as good as blanton's to me that are not altered in some way by finishing or toasted barrel influence. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version.
Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category.
So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track. If they compared the premiums to Gold or SFTB Blanton's would compete very well, for my palate.
I've had Blantons and I thought it was very good. But not good enough to go through the trouble of getting it. I personally think old forester 1920 or anything in that "year" line that they have is as good or better. Just my humble opinion. Drink what you like 😊
I love both 1920 and the 1910.
Another great show guys. I will checkout the Facebook page community. Thanks and Merry Christmas
Thank you! See you in the community!
glad to see you putting knob creek up there .its my go to Il ove knob
Same
Not a fair comparison. I am assuming you are referring to the Blanton’s Original at 93 proof. All the bottles you have shown are great bottles but they are mostly at barrel proof. Apples to oranges
Please go read the updated video description. Around 100 of the comments have been this same sentiment, so I explained myself in the comments rather than copy and past the same response to 100 different people.
I love Blanton's but I will try the ones you have recommended 👍👍👍
Hope you like them. There are some tasty bourbons out there that isn't hard to get your hands on!
Great video, as always. Staying on the topic of Blanton’s, have you considered doing a video about bourbons that are supposedly the same mash bill as Blanton’s and even made at the same distillery? If not I got a wild crazy story of one that took me down a investigative journalist rabbit hole.
When I do alternative to Blanton's I will cover those.
I love this show. I like Blanton’s but I think I prefer Michters to it in flavour, would probably even go Elijah Craig small batch over it. But when it’s around I don’t mind grabbing a bottle of Blanton’s single barrel.
Barrel proof
Barrel strength
100 proof
Etc..,
You do realize Blantons is like 93 proof
What a compliment to Blantons
I think it's just old people who HAVE to have Blanton's. I can think of ten available bourbons that are better. But that damn bottle. Mmm
I don't think it is an age thing. I think it is a collector thing. Some people are very susceptible to wanting to collect things. I jokingly refer to it as the collector gene.
@@BourbonRealTalk I suppose in my family I refer to the men who remember the days before JFK tax and they want their Blanton's specifically to remember the good ol days. 😊 your right as well though.
I love most of these but for me Still Austin CS has a very strange, off flavor palate, so much so that I feel like there is maybe something wrong with the bottle I got. As its opened up I've gotten more used to it. I think I'll have to maybe try another just to make sure.
I have not experienced that, but it could be a genetic anomaly too. See if you can get a sample from someone else and see if it is the same. If so it might be a compound there distillation process is throwing off that not everyone can taste. What does it taste like?
@@BourbonRealTalk it has a real sour medicinal taste that dominates the middle. I do have a different palate that I've noticed over my life with a susceptibility to metallic tastes. Another popular bourbon that tastes different is Lost Monarch which has a very strong hoppy beer flavor to me. Its so strange in these two as opposed to bourbons that I don't like that I'm more ready to assume something is wrong with those specific bottles I have.
@@applecrow8 Just curious. Do you get that medicinal flavor on 1792?
@@BourbonRealTalk No, I really like 1792 however I did notice that the 1792 small batch doesn't seem to taste as good to me now that I have a 1792 Full Proof Store pick.
@@applecrow8 Interesting. 1792 is the pour that I consistently get medicinal notes on. There is a compound that not everyone can taste that comes across as dirt or musty. Not sure what your thing would be, might be genetic.
💯 agree with the list and a learned a couple that I now have on my list (Still Austin and New Riff). I am on the hunt for some solid TX offerings after recently migrating to Houston. I have had countless pours of Blantons over the years but never owned a bottle. I can say that I am certainly a fan and I think it was said perfectly that "if you don't like Blantons, you don't like bourbon". Simple. That said, I also say the same about Wild Turkey 101. It is such a great representation of Bourbon in my opinion.
Thanks for this stellar list that is not only educational, but was presented in the least pretentious way that I have witnessed in such a long time. Thank you brothers!
So glad you enjoyed it. Have you joined our free member community? facebook.com/groups/bourbonrealtalkcommunity/
Mt Four go to whiskey's
number 1: Old 55 kind of hard to get around here but is priced between $90-110
number 2: Wild Turkey Rare Breed easily available $50
Number 3: Whistle Pig 12 Years easy to get but it is $160
Number 4 Dewars 12 And Johnnie Walker Black Price between $32-38
Well rounded list.
I used to drink a lot of Blanton's before allocation. However in my subsequent and frustrated searches after allocation I discovered so many other bourbons that were as good and even some that are better. Don't get me wrong if you offer me a snifter of Blanton's I'll gladly take and enjoy every sip.
Exactly! Blanton's is a solid pour, but your life won't be different without it. Just find something else that tastes good.
All pallettes are different...
Excellent list ! Many great bourbons on the shelf in the $30 - $60 range ... Cheers
Very true! Thanks for watching!
Good list! I love Still Austin
I can't get enough of their cask strength Musician.
Great and fair list! Thank you! I have 5 out of the 10!
Thanks for watching!
Great vid, not a big fan of blantons - have only tried one bottle which I've not finished yet. Its OK, just not as exciting as others. Good list, I'd add a woodford reserve double oaked, definitely the best of the lower proofs.
Didn't qualify for the list because it is not in the same category as Blanton's given it is a toasted barrel finish.
Sooooooo happy about the last add of the Jack. I was sipping it while watching thinking “guys… this is amazing and should be on the list!” Lo and behold it got on the list.
I am obsessed with BP JD TN whiskey and rye
These are all great choices. As far as price and availability, you nailed it. Unfortunatly I think the people who hunt blantons are probably the same people who enjoy a lower proof. I think listing more 90-100proof options would be more on par with the blantons playing field. cheers
That was part of the point I was driving at. I was trying to explain that when blanton's was released as one of the first ever premium bourbons it laid waste to the competition. Once the whiskey world figured out that there was a market for premium, what came after was an even better version.
Imagine someone suddenly has money and they want to collect sports cars. They drive some super cars from 2015-2022 era. Then they go drive a 1984 (first year for blanton's) porsche and evaluate it not based on how technologically advanced it was compared to its contemporaries in 1984, but how well it drives compared to the 2015-2022 supercars. They are going to think it is a piece of shit. That is what happens to Blanton's. What cracks me up is Blanton's saw that other brands were beating them in the premium space with fuller flavored whiskey, and the released blanton's gold and SFTB...which competes well in ANY category.
So when whiskey trolls make fun of blanton's they sound like idiots to me that refuse to compare the 2022 porsche to the other supercars, and insist that porsche sucks because they drove an 1984 model once and it didn't perform as well on the track.