I’ll never be a whiskey snob/troll and say Blanton’s isn’t good bourbon. I’m not going to go out of my way or pay above retail for it but that’s my philosophy with most bottles.
I think you nailed it on the head about people drinking higher proof bourbons then finally getting a Blantons and thinking it’s ok. That describes me, I think it’s fine, but I had already moved into higher proof/barrel proof whiskey before even getting my hands on a Blantons.
I enjoy Blanton's. It was my first hunt. When sipping on it's own It is a great experience at MSRP. Compared to the higher proofed offerings out there, it gets blown away. Now I want to check out the gold and the SFTB. I have samples of each and I'll try them on a blind basis and see if its what its cracked up to be.
Yep, it's good, found it last week in a local super market along with Eagle Rare. ER $35 Blanton's $63, but I had to buy 4 total bottles (! ER, 2 Blanton's, 1 Jim Beam Blk)
Love your channel! I had Blantons at my brother-in-law's place last year. It's good. That's it. Not worth over $50 in my opinion, much less the crazy prices people pay. I felt a little guilty putting that much money in my mouth, but he can afford it and likes sharing expensive stuff. Now I would probably have picked it over the other 4 in this tasting. I don't care for 4 roses at all, and didn't like 1792 very much. So it is better than these lower priced bourbons, but not worth what people pay for it these days, in my opinion. (going for bout $130 these days, and I don't spend over $50 generally speaking)
Blanton's is good, but nowhere near as good as the hype and the price. In fact, the only thing that's ever impressed me from the Buffalo Trace distillery is Blanton's Straight From the Barrel - and in my judgment there is whisky that's at least as good if not better that's a ton easier to find, for instance Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof. Of course YMMV. 🙂 It doesn't surprise me that Bulleit did so well - it's a good high rye bourbon. In fact, for once I've had everything on the bar 🙂, and of them all I prefer Bulleit. 9:26 But you did make a point of letting the panel know that there was a very popular bourbon in the lineup. Would that have the participants thinking of Blanton's? Maybe not - but it would have them wondering which glass it was. I would like to see a repetition, when the participants don't have a clue that there's anything in the lineup but ordinary whisky. I think that might produce a more accurate result - probably not significantly different, but closer to being a truly scientific outcome (of course in tasting whisky it's impossible to be truly scientific in the strict sense of the term 🙂).
I think Bulleit 10 year would have been a more appropriate. Blantons is extremely easy to drink and very agreeable to the new whiskey drinker. I will never say it is not a really good whiskey, but nor will I pay over MSRP, luckily, I live in a control state, and I can get them a few times a year with just an hour standing in line so not so bad and guests love it, and they make amazing gifts.
Give it away, give it away, give it away now! Best content and giveaways in bourbon creators. Randy, keep up the good work and this is the best style Blind, where no one knows what they're drinking. Also, Blantons isn't my go to but I keep it for others to try because they've heard of it.
I was in the room in Tulsa for the Minnick tasting…I know one of these was reversed from the rest of the room, but I had Blanton’s, Bradshaw (Bradshaw!!!), Wild Turkey 101, and Maker’s. I talked to him a couple of years later, and he was still shocked at the result.
Blanton's is good and smooth...when it's not way over MSRP. I enjoy it and keep it in my collection...but not at ridiculous price points. For me, it's not about the hype...if I enjoy it...I enjoy it. That said, does it get over hyped? Absolutely.
I’ve tried Blantons in a few blinds. I find Blantons brings out or magnifies the bitter notes in other bourbons. The bitter notes are in the other whiskies, but toned down if not tasted next to Blantons. Blantons is good, but if drinking on my own, I don’t go to it that often. Most all BT products are all enjoyable, but aren’t necessarily complex as others. I find what I go pour most nights is a much better barometer of what I like than comparing blinds (although blinds are fun).
Been years of drinking bourbon without trying Blanton's. More so due to the aftermarket price markup. Crazy what they ask for it around the Detroit area. Was able to try it at a party in April as they had a bottle there. Have to say I really wasn't a fan of it. Not that it was bad but there is no way I would pay that much for it. Even at MSRP there are a lot of other bottles I'd buy over that.
I actually think Blantons is a great starter bottle if anyone wants to go "neat" with their drink. Knowing my taste, I probably would've picked Larceny. So underrated
Blanton’s is on of my favorites, although I prefer E.H. Taylor to it. The small batch is the only Taylor I’ve tried. Single barrel and barrel proof are still more than I care to pay.
I try to always have one or two Blantons on my shelf for guests to try or drink. Just picked up a couple of bottles last week since I was down to about a half a bottle.
I like Blanton’s. I think this blind shows that it’s overpriced though. Nevermind, I’m typing this out as you are discussing its price point issue. Happy to comment though.
I’m a little surprised at the outcome, I thought 1792 would’ve done better! I am also kind of surprised that Blantons did that well, I expected it to do well, but not a resounding 1st place. Interesting video.
Just got past the intro of the bottles and Will says that’s a pretty good lineup. I like to put it against regular EC or you could do a EC 94proo SiB, I like to throw either standard BT or like Benchmark SiB at 95 proof. I like to throw another BT product in for the seasoned whiskey drinker to throw them off if they can identify BT products. I also like to use 1792 SmB. I like the idea of the 4🌹 SmB, you could also do Like a Remus 6yr, just thinking of a higher rye bourbon.
Blanton's is a good pour. I was actually gifted my first bottle which makes it even better. However, I don't think it should be a $60 msrp...nor do I feel that selling it on the secondary is warranted. I've never had Blanton's Gold, but SFTB is amazing and regular Blanton's doesn't even come close!
The problem with Blanton's is that I can find more readily available bourbons for half of the cost that I enjoy alot more. That's even if you can find it at retail. Secondary has it over $125 at times. Good blind against Blanton's would have included a Buffalo Trace store pick, Jim Beam Black 7, WT101, OGD bonded.
Blantons is not hot garbage. My thought on Blantons is that it’s the only Buffalo trace product that’s just overpriced. I think Blantons is a good 40-45 bourbon. Unfortunately it costs 65-75
I think you missed several key points here: 1. There are other iterations of Blanton's that fulfill your need for a higher proof point; 2. Not all bourbon lovers require a high proof, especially a beginner; 3. The reason it is allocated is because it is the gateway bourbon that sends people down the path of a bourbon enthusiast; 4. If you're seeing more Blanton's on the shelf for cheaper prices, that's bad news for the bourbon industry as a whole, as much as I'd like to see that. Just my two cents.
I think most people in the comments are agreeing. Blanton's is a good bourbon. It was my first bottle of bourbon that I consistently kept on my bar when I really got into bourdons. I just think it's the ridiculous secondary pricing and allocations that make people hate on it.
The problem with judging Blanton’s is that they’re SBs. I’ve had some that are great and some that are meh. I’ve heard recently that some bourbon hunters prefer the bottles from higher Rick placement. Makes sense that a barrel higher up may have more flavor than a lower barrel.
At msrp it's over double the price of the others in this blind. It's overpriced at msrp and hard to obtain even at msrp. Personally I get them only to trade bc they trade always at over 100 bucks if not more, that's all regular Blantons is worth to me, it's trade value.
It has a fruity profile and it drinks super easy. Proof hounds (me) find it lacking. Blanton's Gold and SFTB are a completely different story. Bardstown Origin at 96 proof is pretty close in profile and drinkability at $43.
Should of had bardstown origin white label (hr screamed from the comment section 😂) but seriously.... Blanton's, bardstown white label, eagle rare, 1910, JD sb black label ),
People hate on Blanton’s because it’s overpriced for what you get and it seems like you agree since you mention not wanting to do that sort of blind. There’s plenty of BiB comparisons, only 6 proof points off. That’d be an interesting video to see imo. Plenty out there under the Blanton’s price point
Perhaps a better matchup would have been Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Old Forester 1910, Russell's Reserve 10, Green River bourbon, and Michter's US1 bourbon. Pretty much all are available on shelf at MSRP year round, around the same proof. Sure some are toasted and some are older, but the point being if they are all readily available, and cheaper then it's a fair fight.
I don't pair double oaks with non double oaks, so that is why I didn't use WRDO and Of 1910. RR10 is 10 and Blanton's is 6, so if I included it everyone would be screaming about age. I would have to do some research on Green River and Michter's US1.
Hello Randy Great video this week. I liked the blind taste test. I’ve only drank 3 of those 5. Blanton’s happens to be one of my favorites in that proof range. I’ve never done a blind tasting with any bourbons. So it was interesting to see the results. Thanks again Brian Smith one of your GOATs
Great show. I did a blind of alternative Blanton’s recently and the only one I found that consistently matched it for flavor and price was the John J. Bowman Single Barrel. And I think most enthusiasts know why. Cheers. 🥃
Good whiskey in a great package. Get it at MSRP. Keep the bottle as a decanter, you've saved $25+ on a decent decanter, making up the extra $25 in the "leaser" bottle
I like Blanton's but to me its very sweet and not very complex. its like a light molasses/cane sugar bomb goes off in my mouth and that's all i can taste. i can feel the diabetes creeping in just looking at the bottle. :)
Blanton's is on the the sweet side for sure, but for the record (and for anyone reading this) there is no sugar in Blanton's or any distilled spirit that is unadulterated. No risk of diabetes.
Great review Randy! I don’t drink my Blanton’s very often but when I do, I’m pleasantly surprised, reminded that it is a good whiskey. It’s not worth secondary pricing though.
Blantons was the first bourbon that made me truly enjoy bourbon. From there, I moved on to experiencing everything else. It started me on my journey into this world of whiskey. I have definitely tasted better, but I always have a bottle out for when friends come over and may not be as experienced in the world of whiskey.
We film 6 Friday episodes at a time (in this case 5). Problem was I forgot to tell the other participants to bring different shirts, so I decided to wear the same shirt so they didn't feel weird.
Should be 90-100 proof single barrel bourbons. At least Four Roses SiB should be there. Blanton is heads and shoulders above those others, but not worth the hype and price on secondary.
Yeah, I would like to have seen 4 Roses SB, Heaven Hill BiB and Bardstown Origin in the mix. It would be unfair to have anything over 100 proof. Blanton's improves tremendously with just 10 proof points added.
This is why I love blind tasting, by removing the hype or any predisposed negativity, and price from the equation you really find out some truth. I feel the same way about Basil Hayden as Blanton’s, It stands out above most in its proof range, yet falls behind if compared to others of the same price.
Similar aged, similar proof, but batched. Shouldn’t it be other single barrels? Or is it because there aren’t enough single barrels close to that proof? Not being sarcastic just thinking
Blanton's is good. It may even be great. It's certainly one of the favorites I've had. For many It may be worth full secondary. That would suck the fun out of the hunt for me. You can just about always find someone that wants to get rid of one for 150 or something ...but it sure is fun to find them at 80ish.
Compares it to cheap $20-$40 mass market blended products and then points at the fact that this $80 single barrel beat them as proof that it's good bourbon. 🙄 Compare it to any product in the same MSRP range and it's just not that good. And that's assuming you can find it for MSRP which vast majority of people can't. It's a great gateway product as people get into whiskey but it's just not worth its price or the hunt. If anything it's a good lesson for those new to whiskey to realize there are bottles out there not worth the price they're asking for them.
@@BourbonRealTalk Nope, watched the whole thing. Heard everything you had to say. Yet you still decided to go forward with a "blind" that made no sense. Vast majority of people will buy whiskey based on price first, proof second. If I see a bottle of Blanton's on the shelf for say $80 (good luck with that) and next to it see any other bottle, say Old Forrester 1910 for $55 I'm buying the 1910 every single time. And in that comparison they're actually the same proof! But either way, 90% of the bottles out there in the $80 price point will be the better choice over Blanton's. And as you correctly stated, majority of those bottles are at a higher proof point. So I'm still here confused as to what this blind was supposed to prove beyond Blanton's is better than bottom shelf whiskey.
They figured out that their bottle was being turned sideways in bars because it was too wide, so they made a modified version. I thought it was cool so I bought one when I had the chance.
I first had Blanton's a long time ago, back when it was around $40-$50 and was readily available on store shelves. Taking inflation into account, $80 is probably fair these days, but there are other good ones that have stayed low priced and haven't kept up with inflation. I was fortunate to be able to get Rock Hill Farms for $63 not too long ago. It is basically Blanton's aged in a different warehouse and bottled at slightly higher strength. $80 for Blanton's vs. $63 for Rock Hill Farms... There's no contest - Rock Hill Farms is a much better deal and I find it to be a better product. The higher strength probably explains this, but maybe the different warehouse gives it a flavor profile that I like better. Unfortunately, neither of these is easy to find at MSRP. I'm sure it will be a very long time before I see Rock Hill Farms at MSRP again. I don't currently have a standard Blanton's, but I have a Blanton's SFTB. I like that a lot, though I think the price is high, as I find it comparable in quality to Four Roses and Russell's Reserve single barrel store picks, which cost significantly less. I think the idea of tasting Blanton's next to bourbons of similar strength is a good idea. I put it next to a standard Four Roses single barrel, which is 50% ABV, and Four Roses easily won. The other bourbons in the blind in this video were more basic bourbons (albeit very good basic bourbons), so I'm not surprised Blanton's did well there. I think it would be interesting to follow this up by putting Blanton's in a blind with some of the other premium lower strength bourbons. I have a few higher end, lower strength bourbons in my collection - Eagle Rare 10 store pick, Redwood Empire Screaming Titan, Old Forester 1870 and 1910, Jack Daniel's Sinatra Select, Frey Ranch, and Garrison Brothers Boot Flask. Unfortunately, since I don't have standard Blanton's, it complicates matters a little, but I think I could approximate it by using Blanton's SFTB and measuring carefully to proof it down to exactly 46%, and then letting it sit until the water has time to blend in. (I have graduated cylinders in my kitchen, so I can measure fluids accurately to within 1ml.) With this particular line-up, there is a wide variety of flavor profiles, so I'm sure the winner would come down to personal taste preferences, as these are all high quality products. In my case, that would probably be Garrison Brothers, as I love their style, but Blanton's should be a strong competitor in this line-up. I think my big problem with Blanton's is the excessive hype. I get annoyed when a good quality, middle-of-the-road product like Blanton's gets put on a pedestal and people go stark raving mad over it. It doesn't make sense. I remember when it was a readily available product at a price that was fair for its quality, and I wish it would get back to that. I would have it in my collection from time to time if it was available like it used to be. If you stumble across a bottle of standard Blanton's for around $80, by all means, buy it, enjoy it, and share it with friends. But if you are falling for the hype and spending a lot of time on wild goose chases looking for it or buying it for $200 or more at museum stores, you might want to step back and consider whether it is really worth it to you. If it is worth it, then go for it, but if not, there might be something else that you will love that is much more easily obtained.
lol at Blanton’s being a drain pour 😂. With that said, it’s good but not worth paying double or more over MSRP. I’ve noticed it’s becoming more available lately as I’ve scored two bottles at retail from local grocery stores.
You started the vid off correctly saying what you HAD to put up against it. MEANING it is over priced at MSRP. So basically OBJECTIVELY is over priced for the proof but not just a proof thing. Think about it, you showed similar proof alternatives that all are cheaper and it won against similar proof but is marginally much higher in cost. The correlation is that it is too costly for the what the juice really is. That's the comparison, price.
I knew even if I did the disclaimer people were going to leave this comment, and if I put it against similar priced products like OF1920 everyone would be complaining about proof differences. I can't win.
@@BourbonRealTalk I wasn't trying to create "that" kind of scenario. Meaning being critical of the difference between proof. I see progression in the comparison videos and you're doing great content and pushing to help people spend their money without having to guess, thank you for that. Are there other competitors that are of a similar mashbill and proof range? I googled how many different labels of bourbon and the AI couldn't tell me but it estimated of 1000. My point only still is Blanton's is overpriced (not that it isn't subjectively good). I am curious of other similar bourbon that are in it's proof and mashbill category to compare to?
@@Toolate2024 The issue is there is almost nothing in the $60-$75 that is below 100 proof and still just straight bourbon whiskey. I could put it against WRDO/OF1910, but are double barreled whiskey. I could put it against Henry McKenna but it is higher in proof and age. Virtually everything in this price range is higher in age or proof, or is finished.
@@BourbonRealTalk DISCLAIMER WARNING ⚠️ (incoming reply NO SARCASM INTENDED) A lot of people online like you point out are trolls. I am not so that's why I put the disclaimer before writing this good faith in earnest reply. Okay not going to 2nd guess you on available bourbons of similar mash bill and proof, you are the one with a product and channel to which I have learned much from watching. Thank you for the responses.
Maybe I'm off topic, but is there really any reason to think women are not "welcome" or "safe" in the bourbon "community"? Personally, if given the choice, I'm picking a woman to drink with every time.
I think it is the "check out this photo of a hot chick pouring a dram with her cleavage hanging out" posts that make women feel like bourbon groups are "the good ol boys club". We make sure they know they are welcome.
The Blantons hate is getting old and tiring. I've been able to find more then my share of Blantons over the years. It is good and when you give a bottle as a gift to a new bourbon hunter, it will get their allocated stash started. We all start somewhere and at what point do you make fun of somebody else looking for a bottle. You all know damn well we all drive around walk straight to the whisky section and do a quick perusal..... over and over again! Sounds pretty ridiculous when you think about it!!! 😉
when you can find it for 69.99 and you're in the mood for 90-95 proof bourbon in the warmer summer months...there's literally nothing else on the market in the 90 proof range that even comes close ....except weller, pappy, eagle rare or other 90 proof BTAC gems. In the colder months i'm reaching for Wild Turkey Rare Breed over Blantons every time
@@BourbonRealTalk you're right. but also i dont think blanton's is worth the $80-100 stores are asking these days. i did watch the video, it was good. thanks
@@BourbonRealTalk in this case I believe it was because it was up against $30 bottles. My other comment mentioned JDsb watered down, bardstown white label, 1910, eagle rare, and Blanton's. I think that would make a good blind all in the same 90-96 proof range of bottles that are in the same tier of quality. Enjoy all the videos.
I don't think this blind was actually fair... you're comparing a bunch of 25-30 dollar batched mainline releases to a "premium" $65 single barrel. If you wanted to make it more fair, put 1910, WT kentucky spirit, four roses small batch SELECT or some other bottles that compare in price. I think the outcome will be much different. I'm not a Blanton's hater, but like Weller 12, just super overrated for the prices people ask for them. WT rare breed is cheaper and would wreck regular blantons in a blind.
Looks like you skipped to the end. A lot of time was dedicated to discussing the issues you brought up. Check out the video and then let me know your thoughts.
@@BourbonRealTalk good call lol, I went back, I actually just stopped after the Fred Minnick note so didn't hear the note about other premiums, but agree with you it would likely come in last. Would be fun to see in a blind though for sure.
As weird as it sounds.... It has nothing to do with the juice inside. Never has been. Clever marketing since the beginning. Its the chase of the 🐴 and fancy shaped bottle that has the appeal.
@@IcedCoffeeKev Against bottles half its price. Saying it's "not fair" that similar priced bottles have a higher proof is ridiculous. That simply means Blanton's isn't worth the money, full stop.
@@BourbonRealTalk Why does it keep winning blinds against $35 dollar bottles? You know the answer to that: "...that is because if you put similar priced bottles in a blind against Blanton's, it's gonna get murdered..."
This proved nothing and was an awful comparison. Blanton's msrp is ~80, and its market trade price a bit over 100. The others: 1792 small batch, 4 roses small batch, etc are 40 and easily found everywhere. What you should have done is matched Blanton's against things around its market price. And that's where you'll see Blanton's fall to the bottom
I’ll never be a whiskey snob/troll and say Blanton’s isn’t good bourbon. I’m not going to go out of my way or pay above retail for it but that’s my philosophy with most bottles.
Why does it keep winning in blinds?
@@BourbonRealTalk this blind wasn’t a fair fight. A decent single barrel will always beat blends.
I think you nailed it on the head about people drinking higher proof bourbons then finally getting a Blantons and thinking it’s ok. That describes me, I think it’s fine, but I had already moved into higher proof/barrel proof whiskey before even getting my hands on a Blantons.
I enjoy Blanton's. It was my first hunt. When sipping on it's own It is a great experience at MSRP. Compared to the higher proofed offerings out there, it gets blown away. Now I want to check out the gold and the SFTB. I have samples of each and I'll try them on a blind basis and see if its what its cracked up to be.
Given what blantons went up against, im not surprised.
It’s a great example of a bourbon. Good balance and standard profile. Should be 50 bucks. A good mid level benchmark
Yep, it's good, found it last week in a local super market along with Eagle Rare. ER $35 Blanton's $63, but I had to buy 4 total bottles (! ER, 2 Blanton's, 1 Jim Beam Blk)
Absolutely love this channel. My favorite thing is the patreon monthly virtual bottle share.
Love your channel! I had Blantons at my brother-in-law's place last year. It's good. That's it. Not worth over $50 in my opinion, much less the crazy prices people pay. I felt a little guilty putting that much money in my mouth, but he can afford it and likes sharing expensive stuff. Now I would probably have picked it over the other 4 in this tasting. I don't care for 4 roses at all, and didn't like 1792 very much.
So it is better than these lower priced bourbons, but not worth what people pay for it these days, in my opinion. (going for bout $130 these days, and I don't spend over $50 generally speaking)
Thanks for being here!
Blanton's is good, but nowhere near as good as the hype and the price. In fact, the only thing that's ever impressed me from the Buffalo Trace distillery is Blanton's Straight From the Barrel - and in my judgment there is whisky that's at least as good if not better that's a ton easier to find, for instance Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof. Of course YMMV. 🙂
It doesn't surprise me that Bulleit did so well - it's a good high rye bourbon. In fact, for once I've had everything on the bar 🙂, and of them all I prefer Bulleit.
9:26 But you did make a point of letting the panel know that there was a very popular bourbon in the lineup. Would that have the participants thinking of Blanton's? Maybe not - but it would have them wondering which glass it was. I would like to see a repetition, when the participants don't have a clue that there's anything in the lineup but ordinary whisky. I think that might produce a more accurate result - probably not significantly different, but closer to being a truly scientific outcome (of course in tasting whisky it's impossible to be truly scientific in the strict sense of the term 🙂).
I think Bulleit 10 year would have been a more appropriate. Blantons is extremely easy to drink and very agreeable to the new whiskey drinker. I will never say it is not a really good whiskey, but nor will I pay over MSRP, luckily, I live in a control state, and I can get them a few times a year with just an hour standing in line so not so bad and guests love it, and they make amazing gifts.
I do like the Blantons I’ve had (store pick) I think it’s very good, just don’t over pay. Thanks for the great work BRT Team!
Thanks for watching!
Surprised 1792 Small Batch did so poorly across the board. One of my favorite dailies. Different strokes for different folks. Cheers!
Same. I love all things 1792. Haven’t found a 4R I like yet
I originally didn't like Blantons but came back to it a few months after I opened it and liked the Blantons.
Give it away, give it away, give it away now! Best content and giveaways in bourbon creators. Randy, keep up the good work and this is the best style Blind, where no one knows what they're drinking. Also, Blantons isn't my go to but I keep it for others to try because they've heard of it.
Thanks for tuning in!
I was in the room in Tulsa for the Minnick tasting…I know one of these was reversed from the rest of the room, but I had Blanton’s, Bradshaw (Bradshaw!!!), Wild Turkey 101, and Maker’s. I talked to him a couple of years later, and he was still shocked at the result.
Blanton's is good and smooth...when it's not way over MSRP. I enjoy it and keep it in my collection...but not at ridiculous price points. For me, it's not about the hype...if I enjoy it...I enjoy it. That said, does it get over hyped? Absolutely.
I’ve tried Blantons in a few blinds. I find Blantons brings out or magnifies the bitter notes in other bourbons. The bitter notes are in the other whiskies, but toned down if not tasted next to Blantons. Blantons is good, but if drinking on my own, I don’t go to it that often. Most all BT products are all enjoyable, but aren’t necessarily complex as others. I find what I go pour most nights is a much better barometer of what I like than comparing blinds (although blinds are fun).
Been years of drinking bourbon without trying Blanton's. More so due to the aftermarket price markup. Crazy what they ask for it around the Detroit area. Was able to try it at a party in April as they had a bottle there. Have to say I really wasn't a fan of it. Not that it was bad but there is no way I would pay that much for it. Even at MSRP there are a lot of other bottles I'd buy over that.
Just got one for $56 at Costco and most stores here in California have it for about $75
Blanton's is tasty, but not for $75 MSRP in my area and allocated. So many other fine options between $45-$75.
Blantons is Great for MSRP I try to keep one on my shelf. I prefer Gold and SFTB more, but they are hard to get at MSRP. Great video Thanks!
I actually think Blantons is a great starter bottle if anyone wants to go "neat" with their drink. Knowing my taste, I probably would've picked Larceny. So underrated
Great comparison. Thanks. 😊
Thanks for watching!
Blanton’s is on of my favorites, although I prefer E.H. Taylor to it. The small batch is the only Taylor I’ve tried. Single barrel and barrel proof are still more than I care to pay.
I try to always have one or two Blantons on my shelf for guests to try or drink. Just picked up a couple of bottles last week since I was down to about a half a bottle.
I like Blanton’s. I think this blind shows that it’s overpriced though. Nevermind, I’m typing this out as you are discussing its price point issue. Happy to comment though.
I’m a little surprised at the outcome, I thought 1792 would’ve done better! I am also kind of surprised that Blantons did that well, I expected it to do well, but not a resounding 1st place. Interesting video.
It happened at Fred's event with 370 people too. When he announced the results everyone wanted to argue. It was funny.
Blantons is good! It gets slack bc of the secondary pricing which is definitely unreasonable. Blantons gold is very good!
Just got past the intro of the bottles and Will says that’s a pretty good lineup. I like to put it against regular EC or you could do a EC 94proo SiB, I like to throw either standard BT or like Benchmark SiB at 95 proof. I like to throw another BT product in for the seasoned whiskey drinker to throw them off if they can identify BT products. I also like to use 1792 SmB. I like the idea of the 4🌹 SmB, you could also do
Like a Remus 6yr, just thinking of a higher rye bourbon.
I left the EC out because it is 8-12 year old barrels, but the proof would have worked.
Blanton's is a good pour. I was actually gifted my first bottle which makes it even better. However, I don't think it should be a $60 msrp...nor do I feel that selling it on the secondary is warranted. I've never had Blanton's Gold, but SFTB is amazing and regular Blanton's doesn't even come close!
The problem with Blanton's is that I can find more readily available bourbons for half of the cost that I enjoy alot more. That's even if you can find it at retail. Secondary has it over $125 at times. Good blind against Blanton's would have included a Buffalo Trace store pick, Jim Beam Black 7, WT101, OGD bonded.
I would not have put another product from the same distillery or 100 proofs against a 93. JB7 would have been a good one.
Blantons is not hot garbage. My thought on Blantons is that it’s the only Buffalo trace product that’s just overpriced. I think Blantons is a good 40-45 bourbon. Unfortunately it costs 65-75
I think you missed several key points here: 1. There are other iterations of Blanton's that fulfill your need for a higher proof point; 2. Not all bourbon lovers require a high proof, especially a beginner; 3. The reason it is allocated is because it is the gateway bourbon that sends people down the path of a bourbon enthusiast; 4. If you're seeing more Blanton's on the shelf for cheaper prices, that's bad news for the bourbon industry as a whole, as much as I'd like to see that. Just my two cents.
I think most people in the comments are agreeing. Blanton's is a good bourbon. It was my first bottle of bourbon that I consistently kept on my bar when I really got into bourdons. I just think it's the ridiculous secondary pricing and allocations that make people hate on it.
Proof I came from the other Blanton's video!
I personally love it but I’m not willing to pay over MSRP
Jim Beam Black 7yr mops the floor with Blanton's 8 days a week (maybe really good picks excluded) and I'll stand behind that statement
I try not to over pay if I can help it but sometimes to get that one bottle you can help it
You could have stopped right at the disclaimer. Blanton's gets merked by similar msrp bottles. The end.
The problem with judging Blanton’s is that they’re SBs. I’ve had some that are great and some that are meh. I’ve heard recently that some bourbon hunters prefer the bottles from higher Rick placement. Makes sense that a barrel higher up may have more flavor than a lower barrel.
Great show as always! Remember, if you woke up this morning wondering if anyone loved you, just know that we all love you. Cheers!
Blanton’s is good but not worth paying more than MSRP. It needs to be higher proof.
At msrp it's over double the price of the others in this blind. It's overpriced at msrp and hard to obtain even at msrp. Personally I get them only to trade bc they trade always at over 100 bucks if not more, that's all regular Blantons is worth to me, it's trade value.
I've had all the ones listed here and prefer blantons, but I won't pay over 60, so, im out of luck😅
I like stronger proofs, and thought Blanton's was hype, had some about 3 months ago, it's a good 90 proof bourbon, would see how it could win a blind.
It has a fruity profile and it drinks super easy. Proof hounds (me) find it lacking. Blanton's Gold and SFTB are a completely different story. Bardstown Origin at 96 proof is pretty close in profile and drinkability at $43.
Love double blinds 😎😎
When it was $62 maybe. But at $85 not worth it
Should of had bardstown origin white label (hr screamed from the comment section 😂) but seriously....
Blanton's, bardstown white label, eagle rare, 1910, JD sb black label ),
People hate on Blanton’s because it’s overpriced for what you get and it seems like you agree since you mention not wanting to do that sort of blind. There’s plenty of BiB comparisons, only 6 proof points off. That’d be an interesting video to see imo. Plenty out there under the Blanton’s price point
7 proof points* 😅
@@eafarrar #math lol
Yes, Blantons in good, just not $130 a bottle good.
Good video
Thanks
Perhaps a better matchup would have been Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Old Forester 1910, Russell's Reserve 10, Green River bourbon, and Michter's US1 bourbon. Pretty much all are available on shelf at MSRP year round, around the same proof. Sure some are toasted and some are older, but the point being if they are all readily available, and cheaper then it's a fair fight.
I don't pair double oaks with non double oaks, so that is why I didn't use WRDO and Of 1910. RR10 is 10 and Blanton's is 6, so if I included it everyone would be screaming about age. I would have to do some research on Green River and Michter's US1.
Blanton's is fine. It is just not worth the hype or secondary market price.
Hello Randy
Great video this week. I liked the blind taste test. I’ve only drank 3 of those 5. Blanton’s happens to be one of my favorites in that proof range. I’ve never done a blind tasting with any bourbons. So it was interesting to see the results.
Thanks again
Brian Smith one of your GOATs
Look into some wisers special cask 1958
The other whiskeys are close to if not half the price of blantons. That's why so many people hate on it. The juice ain't worth the price.
You skipped to the end. We discuss this at length in the video.
Great show. I did a blind of alternative Blanton’s recently and the only one I found that consistently matched it for flavor and price was the John J. Bowman Single Barrel. And I think most enthusiasts know why. Cheers. 🥃
It's not worth the hype or what stores charge for it. Buffalo trace is pretty similar and I think eagle rare is straight up better than blanton's
Good whiskey in a great package. Get it at MSRP. Keep the bottle as a decanter, you've saved $25+ on a decent decanter, making up the extra $25 in the "leaser" bottle
Lol Blantons is like nickelback they made great music but ppl just loved to hate it 😂 if i could have 10 blantons at msrp or 10 above it i would
I like Blanton's but to me its very sweet and not very complex. its like a light molasses/cane sugar bomb goes off in my mouth and that's all i can taste. i can feel the diabetes creeping in just looking at the bottle. :)
Blanton's is on the the sweet side for sure, but for the record (and for anyone reading this) there is no sugar in Blanton's or any distilled spirit that is unadulterated. No risk of diabetes.
Great explanation of the proof differences. Never heard that before.
Woodford Double oak, and makers 46 should have been in the blind
I don't blind finished and unfinished whiskey together.
Great review Randy! I don’t drink my Blanton’s very often but when I do, I’m pleasantly surprised, reminded that it is a good whiskey. It’s not worth secondary pricing though.
Maybe John J Bowman
It is the same liquid so I left it out.
@@BourbonRealTalk agree just aged differently. Question someone said they went to their own distiller last year, is that true?
Blantons was the first bourbon that made me truly enjoy bourbon. From there, I moved on to experiencing everything else. It started me on my journey into this world of whiskey. I have definitely tasted better, but I always have a bottle out for when friends come over and may not be as experienced in the world of whiskey.
How many videos did you do in a single day? Same shirt for at least three videos. 😂
We film 6 Friday episodes at a time (in this case 5). Problem was I forgot to tell the other participants to bring different shirts, so I decided to wear the same shirt so they didn't feel weird.
Should be 90-100 proof single barrel bourbons. At least Four Roses SiB should be there. Blanton is heads and shoulders above those others, but not worth the hype and price on secondary.
Yeah, I would like to have seen 4 Roses SB, Heaven Hill BiB and Bardstown Origin in the mix. It would be unfair to have anything over 100 proof. Blanton's improves tremendously with just 10 proof points added.
Maybe an Old Forrester Single Barrel and 1972 Single Barrel.
It doesn't mean any thing weird, it just means you like nuts in your mouth. LOL. Super interesting results. Thanks for another good one.
This is why I love blind tasting, by removing the hype or any predisposed negativity, and price from the equation you really find out some truth. I feel the same way about Basil Hayden as Blanton’s, It stands out above most in its proof range, yet falls behind if compared to others of the same price.
Similar aged, similar proof, but batched. Shouldn’t it be other single barrels? Or is it because there aren’t enough single barrels close to that proof? Not being sarcastic just thinking
Correct. Not enough SiB.
@@BourbonRealTalk gotcha! Thanks for all your excellent content!
Blanton's is good. It may even be great. It's certainly one of the favorites I've had.
For many It may be worth full secondary.
That would suck the fun out of the hunt for me. You can just about always find someone that wants to get rid of one for 150 or something
...but it sure is fun to find them at 80ish.
This giveaway has several I haven't got to try yet. Bulleit, 1792, Larceny...all on the list, but not sure how to prioritize.
Love y'all! Have a great weekend everybody!
Not watching the video just here to no, if you can’t get it at msrp
Compares it to cheap $20-$40 mass market blended products and then points at the fact that this $80 single barrel beat them as proof that it's good bourbon. 🙄 Compare it to any product in the same MSRP range and it's just not that good. And that's assuming you can find it for MSRP which vast majority of people can't. It's a great gateway product as people get into whiskey but it's just not worth its price or the hunt. If anything it's a good lesson for those new to whiskey to realize there are bottles out there not worth the price they're asking for them.
I am guessing you skipped around in the video, but we cover you point in detail.
@@BourbonRealTalk Nope, watched the whole thing. Heard everything you had to say. Yet you still decided to go forward with a "blind" that made no sense. Vast majority of people will buy whiskey based on price first, proof second. If I see a bottle of Blanton's on the shelf for say $80 (good luck with that) and next to it see any other bottle, say Old Forrester 1910 for $55 I'm buying the 1910 every single time. And in that comparison they're actually the same proof! But either way, 90% of the bottles out there in the $80 price point will be the better choice over Blanton's. And as you correctly stated, majority of those bottles are at a higher proof point. So I'm still here confused as to what this blind was supposed to prove beyond Blanton's is better than bottom shelf whiskey.
@@red5standingby419 If you watched the video and are still confused, I think further explanation would be a waste of time. Thanks for watching!
Giveaway says it's for the my favorite whiskey one. I don't know if that's the last video or not.
Love the channel and the fb community
Thanks. Fixed it.
That 1792 bottle is dorky, it’s just wrong
They figured out that their bottle was being turned sideways in bars because it was too wide, so they made a modified version. I thought it was cool so I bought one when I had the chance.
Yes it is worth the hype
I first had Blanton's a long time ago, back when it was around $40-$50 and was readily available on store shelves. Taking inflation into account, $80 is probably fair these days, but there are other good ones that have stayed low priced and haven't kept up with inflation. I was fortunate to be able to get Rock Hill Farms for $63 not too long ago. It is basically Blanton's aged in a different warehouse and bottled at slightly higher strength. $80 for Blanton's vs. $63 for Rock Hill Farms... There's no contest - Rock Hill Farms is a much better deal and I find it to be a better product. The higher strength probably explains this, but maybe the different warehouse gives it a flavor profile that I like better. Unfortunately, neither of these is easy to find at MSRP. I'm sure it will be a very long time before I see Rock Hill Farms at MSRP again.
I don't currently have a standard Blanton's, but I have a Blanton's SFTB. I like that a lot, though I think the price is high, as I find it comparable in quality to Four Roses and Russell's Reserve single barrel store picks, which cost significantly less. I think the idea of tasting Blanton's next to bourbons of similar strength is a good idea. I put it next to a standard Four Roses single barrel, which is 50% ABV, and Four Roses easily won. The other bourbons in the blind in this video were more basic bourbons (albeit very good basic bourbons), so I'm not surprised Blanton's did well there. I think it would be interesting to follow this up by putting Blanton's in a blind with some of the other premium lower strength bourbons. I have a few higher end, lower strength bourbons in my collection - Eagle Rare 10 store pick, Redwood Empire Screaming Titan, Old Forester 1870 and 1910, Jack Daniel's Sinatra Select, Frey Ranch, and Garrison Brothers Boot Flask. Unfortunately, since I don't have standard Blanton's, it complicates matters a little, but I think I could approximate it by using Blanton's SFTB and measuring carefully to proof it down to exactly 46%, and then letting it sit until the water has time to blend in. (I have graduated cylinders in my kitchen, so I can measure fluids accurately to within 1ml.) With this particular line-up, there is a wide variety of flavor profiles, so I'm sure the winner would come down to personal taste preferences, as these are all high quality products. In my case, that would probably be Garrison Brothers, as I love their style, but Blanton's should be a strong competitor in this line-up.
I think my big problem with Blanton's is the excessive hype. I get annoyed when a good quality, middle-of-the-road product like Blanton's gets put on a pedestal and people go stark raving mad over it. It doesn't make sense. I remember when it was a readily available product at a price that was fair for its quality, and I wish it would get back to that. I would have it in my collection from time to time if it was available like it used to be.
If you stumble across a bottle of standard Blanton's for around $80, by all means, buy it, enjoy it, and share it with friends. But if you are falling for the hype and spending a lot of time on wild goose chases looking for it or buying it for $200 or more at museum stores, you might want to step back and consider whether it is really worth it to you. If it is worth it, then go for it, but if not, there might be something else that you will love that is much more easily obtained.
A kit from Great Whiskey Challenge would help a lot to keep the blind test results in order next time!
lol at Blanton’s being a drain pour 😂. With that said, it’s good but not worth paying double or more over MSRP. I’ve noticed it’s becoming more available lately as I’ve scored two bottles at retail from local grocery stores.
You started the vid off correctly saying what you HAD to put up against it. MEANING it is over priced at MSRP. So basically OBJECTIVELY is over priced for the proof but not just a proof thing. Think about it, you showed similar proof alternatives that all are cheaper and it won against similar proof but is marginally much higher in cost. The correlation is that it is too costly for the what the juice really is. That's the comparison, price.
I knew even if I did the disclaimer people were going to leave this comment, and if I put it against similar priced products like OF1920 everyone would be complaining about proof differences. I can't win.
@@BourbonRealTalk I wasn't trying to create "that" kind of scenario. Meaning being critical of the difference between proof. I see progression in the comparison videos and you're doing great content and pushing to help people spend their money without having to guess, thank you for that. Are there other competitors that are of a similar mashbill and proof range? I googled how many different labels of bourbon and the AI couldn't tell me but it estimated of 1000. My point only still is Blanton's is overpriced (not that it isn't subjectively good). I am curious of other similar bourbon that are in it's proof and mashbill category to compare to?
@@Toolate2024 The issue is there is almost nothing in the $60-$75 that is below 100 proof and still just straight bourbon whiskey. I could put it against WRDO/OF1910, but are double barreled whiskey. I could put it against Henry McKenna but it is higher in proof and age. Virtually everything in this price range is higher in age or proof, or is finished.
@@BourbonRealTalk DISCLAIMER WARNING ⚠️ (incoming reply NO SARCASM INTENDED) A lot of people online like you point out are trolls. I am not so that's why I put the disclaimer before writing this good faith in earnest reply.
Okay not going to 2nd guess you on available bourbons of similar mash bill and proof, you are the one with a product and channel to which I have learned much from watching. Thank you for the responses.
❤
Maybe I'm off topic, but is there really any reason to think women are not "welcome" or "safe" in the bourbon "community"? Personally, if given the choice, I'm picking a woman to drink with every time.
I think it is the "check out this photo of a hot chick pouring a dram with her cleavage hanging out" posts that make women feel like bourbon groups are "the good ol boys club". We make sure they know they are welcome.
The Blantons hate is getting old and tiring. I've been able to find more then my share of Blantons over the years. It is good and when you give a bottle as a gift to a new bourbon hunter, it will get their allocated stash started. We all start somewhere and at what point do you make fun of somebody else looking for a bottle. You all know damn well we all drive around walk straight to the whisky section and do a quick perusal..... over and over again! Sounds pretty ridiculous when you think about it!!! 😉
🔥 lol the outtakes!!
I was waiting for someone to notice! I was on one that day.
No, it’s not worth the hype
Very true. So much better stuff out there that's available
when you can find it for 69.99 and you're in the mood for 90-95 proof bourbon in the warmer summer months...there's literally nothing else on the market in the 90 proof range that even comes close ....except weller, pappy, eagle rare or other 90 proof BTAC gems.
In the colder months i'm reaching for Wild Turkey Rare Breed over Blantons every time
You didn't watch the video before you commented 🤣
@@BourbonRealTalksome people just live with their finger on the trigger lol
@@BourbonRealTalk you're right. but also i dont think blanton's is worth the $80-100 stores are asking these days. i did watch the video, it was good. thanks
The answer is no.
Why does it keep winning in blinds?
@@BourbonRealTalk in this case I believe it was because it was up against $30 bottles. My other comment mentioned JDsb watered down, bardstown white label, 1910, eagle rare, and Blanton's. I think that would make a good blind all in the same 90-96 proof range of bottles that are in the same tier of quality.
Enjoy all the videos.
I don't think this blind was actually fair... you're comparing a bunch of 25-30 dollar batched mainline releases to a "premium" $65 single barrel. If you wanted to make it more fair, put 1910, WT kentucky spirit, four roses small batch SELECT or some other bottles that compare in price. I think the outcome will be much different. I'm not a Blanton's hater, but like Weller 12, just super overrated for the prices people ask for them. WT rare breed is cheaper and would wreck regular blantons in a blind.
Looks like you skipped to the end. A lot of time was dedicated to discussing the issues you brought up. Check out the video and then let me know your thoughts.
@@BourbonRealTalk good call lol, I went back, I actually just stopped after the Fred Minnick note so didn't hear the note about other premiums, but agree with you it would likely come in last. Would be fun to see in a blind though for sure.
As weird as it sounds.... It has nothing to do with the juice inside. Never has been. Clever marketing since the beginning. Its the chase of the 🐴 and fancy shaped bottle that has the appeal.
But you seen it was double blind, still got 1st place and the story he said everyone else chose it as well being a blind test as well
@@IcedCoffeeKev Against bottles half its price. Saying it's "not fair" that similar priced bottles have a higher proof is ridiculous. That simply means Blanton's isn't worth the money, full stop.
Why do does it keep winning in blinds?
@@BourbonRealTalk Why does it keep winning blinds against $35 dollar bottles? You know the answer to that: "...that is because if you put similar priced bottles in a blind against Blanton's, it's gonna get murdered..."
This proved nothing and was an awful comparison. Blanton's msrp is ~80, and its market trade price a bit over 100. The others: 1792 small batch, 4 roses small batch, etc are 40 and easily found everywhere. What you should have done is matched Blanton's against things around its market price. And that's where you'll see Blanton's fall to the bottom
Don't comment on videos you have not watched all the way through
1st 👍
There ya go!
I love Blanton’s. At MSRP it’s great. STFB is fantastic
its mid.
Why does it keep winning in blinds?