While binge-watching Season 3 of NCIS: New Orleans recently, I spotted a familiar bottle sitting on the table between Pride and Gregorio. Whiskey lovers will know that distinctive shape instantly. It was Blanton’s Gold Edition bourbon whiskey, one of the most sought-after bourbons in the world.
Fortunately, I already had a bottle waiting in my whisky cabinet. That was all the excuse I needed to pour a dram and see whether Blanton’s Gold Edition really deserved its legendary reputation.
What Makes Blanton’s Gold Edition So Special?
Even before you remove the cork, Blanton’s Gold Edition bourbon makes a statement. The iconic short, round bottle, elegant label and famous horse-and-jockey stopper have become symbols of premium bourbon.
Originally released as an extension of the Blanton’s range, this expression is bottled at a robust 51.5% ABV (103 Proof), giving it more intensity than the standard Blanton’s Original Single Barrel.
Blanton’s itself changed bourbon history when it became the world’s first commercially marketed single-barrel bourbon in 1984. Every bottle comes from a single barrel rather than being blended with others, so no two bottles are exactly alike. That’s part of the appeal; each barrel develops its own unique personality.
Produced at the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, and owned by the Sazerac Company, Blanton’s has earned an almost cult-like following among bourbon enthusiasts.
The Famous Horse Stoppers
One of the most collectable features of Blanton’s Gold Edition is its stopper. There are eight different horse-and-jockey designs, each representing a stage of a horse race, from the explosive start to the victorious finish. Collectors often spend years trying to complete the full set, making every bottle feel just a little more special.
Will I eventually collect all eight? Time will tell, but for now, this lone champion proudly stands guard over my whisky shelf.
How Is Blanton’s Gold Edition Made?
Blanton’s Gold Edition is matured for approximately 6 to 8 years in carefully selected warehouses. It uses Buffalo Trace’s high-rye mash bill, adding an extra layer of spice that beautifully complements its rich sweetness. Every bottle is hand-filled, hand-sealed, individually labelled and numbered, adding to the premium feel of the experience.
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Blanton’s Gold Edition Bourbon Whiskey Review
COUNTRY: USA
ABV: 51.5%
COLOUR: Dark amber
NOSE: The aroma is wonderfully inviting. Rich toasted oak leads the way, followed by warming rye spice, creamy vanilla, condensed milk and sweet caramel. As it opens, notes of dried orange peel, honey, and gentle baking spices emerge, creating an exceptionally layered nose.
PALATE: The Gold Edition is a big, bold bourbon that demands your attention. The higher proof delivers an initial warmth, but after a few minutes in the glass, it settles beautifully. Toasted oak, rich fudge and creamy vanilla form the backbone before flavours of cinnamon, chocolate-covered orange, cherries and honey develop.
The higher rye content contributes black pepper and gentle baking spice that keep the sweetness perfectly balanced. Despite its strength, the mouthfeel is silky and luxurious. Adding just a few drops of water softens the alcohol slightly while revealing even more vanilla and caramel. Go easy, though, this bourbon doesn’t need much dilution.
FINISH: Long, warming and incredibly satisfying. The finish lingers with rich fudge, toasted oak, cinnamon, cracked pepper and lingering orange zest that refuses to disappear.
RATING: DIVINE
Blanton’s Gold Edition genuinely impressed both John and me. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed some exceptional bourbons, including Maker’s Mark 46 and Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, but very few have delivered this level of depth, balance and complexity.
This isn’t an everyday bourbon. It’s a bottle you open when the occasion deserves something memorable. In fact, after pouring our first glasses, we almost cancelled our dinner plans so that we could spend the evening exploring everything this remarkable bourbon had to offer.
Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s difficult to find. But once you experience its rich flavours, elegant complexity and remarkably long finish, you’ll understand why bourbon enthusiasts around the world chase bottles of Blanton’s Gold Edition.
Food Pairing
A strong blue cheese works exceptionally well with Blanton’s Gold Edition. The creamy, salty richness of the cheese balances the bourbon’s sweetness while allowing its spicy rye character to shine. It’s a pairing I’ll happily return to. I found it on Amazon. It is quite expensive, but so worth the money.
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