I like nice things and this is a very nice thing! Introducing the Aston Martin of bourbons: Blanton’s Gold Edition.

Blanton’s bourbon comes in four varieties, Original, Special Reserve, Straight From The Barrel and Gold Edition. All share the Derby horse racing theme and all are top end bourbons but it’s the Gold Edition that stands out as the lead horse.

Bourbon is not exactly a ‘leave in on show’ drink. You wouldn’t put a bottle of JD on your bookshelf with the hope of impressing a house guest. Blanton’s Gold edition, however, is all about the class. From its decanter-like bottle to its seemingly hand stencilled label to its iconic Derby themed stopper, it makes for a grand statement out on display.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aesthetics are nothing without the taste to back it up and let’s face it that’s what you came here to find out about so does it deliver the goods?

It’s made with a mash bill of rye, corn and barley. This results in a more complex flavour than most bourbons. It will make anything you can buy in a supermarket drinks aisle seem like tea tinged antifreeze.

Scent: Chocolatey, fruity, cakey wholesomeness. How I imagine it smells under Mary Berry’s fingernails.

Taste: I would be hard-pressed to describe this without using the word nectar. It’s got a cheeky, fruity sweetness to it that is particularly moreish. There is an oaky woodiness lurking in there too, just under the surface. Think of all the fruity spicy components of a Christmas pudding having a masquerade ball in your mouth and you’re most of the way there. It’s a sipping drink which I think is best served straight, though at 51.5%, it’s not to be taken lightly.

If you shop around you can get a bottle for around about £60. This may seem steep but I assure you it is worth every penny.

This is one of my favourite drinks of all time and the only bourbon I would always have in the house. Enjoy this with friends and they will thank you for it. This truly is the spirit of Kentucky! 5/5

Find your perfect nightcap with our whiskey and bourbon reviews section. Perhaps Suntory’s Hibiki 17 year-old whisky?