Blanton’s Bourbon has only gotten harder to find in 2025. It’s still one of the most talked-about bottles on bourbon forums, and it continues to draw attention from collectors and casual drinkers alike. But with the hype comes the inevitable question: What is Blanton’s retail price?
In this guide, we’ll break down Blanton’s MSRP, a fair market price, and how much is too much. We’ll also cover what makes this bottle so iconic, along with a look at its different versions and lasting legacy.
What Is Blanton’s Bourbon?
Blanton’s Bourbon is credited as the world’s first single barrel bourbon. Elmer T. Lee introduced it in 1984, naming it after Colonel Albert B. Blanton, a longtime leader at the distillery. What started as a niche release has grown into one of the most recognizable bourbons on the planet.
Today, it’s made by Buffalo Trace using their high-rye Mash Bill #2 and aged in Warehouse H, a metal-clad rickhouse that leads to quicker aging and a more intense flavor. Blanton’s is dumped by hand, bottled without automation, and still feels handmade in all the right ways.
Blanton’s Retail Price: What Should You Pay in 2025?
According to bourbon price-sorting sites like wine-searcher and BoozApp, here is the relative price of Blaton’s, sorted by fair retail price, MSRP, and the upper-bounds of what you should pay.
This pricing breakdown covers Blanton’s MSRP, alongside a realistic retail price and a warning for how high is too high. Pricing varies by edition, and while the suggested retail price remains reasonable, secondary prices often push the limits.
| Blanton’s Expression | MSRP | Fair Price | High Price Warning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blanton’s Single Barrel (Original) | $56.99 | $96.42 | Over $171.29 |
| Blanton’s Gold Edition | $105.00 | $231.42 | Over $324.99 |
| Blanton’s Black Label (Japan) | $199.99 | $279.36 | Over $400.99 |
| Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel | $150.00 | $300.35 | Over $399.99 |
| Blanton’s Red Label (Japan) | $199.99 | $294.96 | Over $349.59 |
| Blanton’s Special Reserve (Green) | $49.99 | $199.99 | Over $217.98 |
Note: As mentioned numbers are based on real-time price tracking from collectors. If you’re paying more than the “high price” range, you’re probably overpaying.
Why Blanton’s Bottles Stand Out
Part of what keeps Blanton’s in such high demand is the bottle itself. Each one is hand-filled and individually numbered with the dump date and barrel location. On top sits the famous horse and jockey stopper. There are eight versions, each capturing a different moment in a horse race. Collect all eight, and you’ll spell out B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S along the way.
The Different Blanton’s Editions
Blanton’s isn’t a one-size-fits-all bourbon. There are several editions, each with a slightly different profile.
- Original Single Barrel (93 proof): The classic. Smooth, balanced, and versatile.
- Gold Edition (103 proof): A richer, more intense version mostly sold internationally. (BourbonDose covered Blanton’s Gold In Depth Here)
- Straight From The Barrel (varies): Unfiltered and uncut. Big, bold, and a fan favorite.
- Special Reserve (80 proof): A lighter, easier-drinking version aimed at international markets.
- Red & Black Labels: Rare Japanese exclusives with deeper aging and distinctive flavor profiles.
The Legacy of Blanton’s Bourbon
Blanton’s helped invent the concept of premium bourbon. What started as a bold experiment has become a global icon. Despite criticism from some corners of the bourbon world, it continues to earn praise for its consistency, history, and presentation.
Whether you’re in it for the taste, the bottle, or the hunt, Blanton’s remains a staple in the bourbon world. Just make sure you’re paying the right price.
What’s New With Blanton’s in 2025?
In 2025, Blanton’s shows no signs of slowing down. International editions like Gold and Straight From the Barrel continue to drive demand, especially as Buffalo Trace expands distribution. Limited allocations and state lotteries remain the most reliable ways to find a bottle near MSRP (we will continue to cover this in our “Bourbon Hunting” section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon has an official MSRP of $56.99 in 2025, though prices at liquor stores can be higher due to limited supply and high demand.
Blanton’s is expensive because of its limited distribution, hand-bottling process, collector demand, and secondary market hype. While the MSRP is low, scarcity drives prices up at retail.
Blanton’s is a high-quality bourbon with historic significance and elegant presentation. For MSRP, it’s a great value. At inflated prices, its worth is more subjective. (Read more on this here)
Some state-controlled liquor stores or local raffles may offer Blanton’s at or near MSRP. However, finding it on shelves at suggested retail price is rare.
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