Blanton's Special Reserve Red Label is a single barrel bourbon produced exclusively for the Japanese market — the same high-rye Buffalo Trace mash bill and Warehouse H aging program as the Original Single Barrel, but aged approximately two additional years, producing a noticeably deeper and more developed character at 93 proof (46.5% ABV) that makes it one of the most sought-after Blanton's expressions among serious collectors outside Japan.
The Japanese market has long received expressions from American distilleries that never see domestic release — Blanton's Special Reserve is among the most prominent examples. Where the Original is bottled at 46.5% ABV from barrels selected at the standard aging point, the Special Reserve draws from barrels that have continued aging in the center-cut section of Warehouse H, the specific warehouse location Colonel Blanton identified as producing the finest bourbon on the property. The additional time in oak amplifies the vanilla and caramel character while deepening the spice complexity, producing a bourbon that drinks with more weight and structure than the standard expression.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Creamy vanilla and caramel with deeper oak than the Original — butterscotch, baking spice, and a hint of dried fruit from the extended aging
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Palate: Rich and structured — vanilla, caramel, citrus, and warm oak spice. Fuller and more layered than the Original at the same ABV
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Finish: Long and warming with persistent vanilla, clove, and a dry oak note that the additional aging introduces
Specs
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Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky
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Producer: Sazerac Company
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Style: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Single Barrel
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Mash Bill: High-rye Buffalo Trace mash bill (corn, rye, malted barley)
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Aging: Warehouse H center-cut, approximately 2 years longer than the Original
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ABV: 46.5% (93 Proof)
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Market: Japanese import exclusive
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Size: 750ml
Browse all Blanton's expressions at Wooden Cork.
Please note: Due to Blanton's wax seal design, minor cracking or seepage may occur during transit. We will provide resolution options if this occurs and shipping protection has been purchased. Please be advised replacements/exchanges will not be offered. Boxes or bags may or may not be included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Blanton's Special Reserve and the Original Single Barrel?
The Special Reserve Red Label is aged approximately two years longer than the Original in the same Warehouse H center-cut location. Both are single barrel expressions from the same high-rye Buffalo Trace mash bill at 46.5% ABV, but the extended aging produces a deeper vanilla and oak character with more structural complexity on the palate and finish. The Special Reserve was created specifically for the Japanese market, where consumers have historically favored more developed, well-aged bourbon expressions.
Why was Blanton's Special Reserve made exclusively for Japan?
Japanese whisky culture has long placed a premium on aged, complex spirits, and American distilleries have responded by producing exclusive expressions for that market. Blanton's Special Reserve was developed to meet Japanese consumer preferences for more developed aged character. Because it was never officially released in the US, bottles in the American market are imports — typically commanding a significant premium over the domestic Original.
How should I serve Blanton's Special Reserve?
Neat in a Glencairn or rocks glass, at room temperature or with a single ice cube to open the aromatics. The additional aging complexity rewards slow sipping without dilution. It can be used in elevated bourbon cocktails, but the extra depth it offers over the Original is best appreciated straight.
