Thanks for the content. Actually, Eagle Rare is a better sipper IMO. Also, Old Forester 1910, Woodford Double Oaked and Russells 10 yr, and Mitchters Small Batch should be on this list. Cheers 🥃
Thanks for watching Shawn. I think Eagle Rare is more fruity where Blanton is more caramel. I love the OF 1920, havent tried the 1910 yet. For some reason I didnt love the Woodford. Check out the next video dropping on Thursday.
@@riseandgrind1911 no problem brother! 1920 is arguably the best shelfer you can find, but there's always a debate of which one is better between 1910 and 1920. Proof aside, it usually comes down to personal preference. However, if you combine them both and form the 1915, this is a fantastic blend. Thanks for the content and replying. I will be looking forward to more reviews from your channel. 🥃
Shawn Dent! Great 👍 comments, I am a big fan of Michters and Eagle Rare-- I sipped a glass of Michters US-1 a night 🌙 ago and it is a btl. of WOW! ( Scotch test dummies say that about Elijah Craig barrel 😳 proof , which it is , also, I like Eagle Rare bec.it is high rye content AND 10 years old, cheers from ETn!🥃
Great list here! Unfortunately Eagle Rare is becoming tough to find, due to hoarders and flippers. But I completely agree that Eagle Rare is a phenomenal value and great alternative to Blantons. Great video! Cheers.
Thanks for watching Christian. I didnt like Eagle Rare at first, until I learned about the hype around it. I wished that $40 bottle could be treated for what it is.
@@riseandgrind1911 Eagle Rare is harder to get where I live than Blantons &is $100+. I have to get it when I'm out of state & buy 2-3 bottles when I find it
Got sick on bourbon when I was 10 and didn’t touch it again until 60. The only one I’ve had that I like is Frey Ranch Uncut, but can’t live without Islay Whisky! Never had Blanton’s. Thanks for your service brother!
Love the bourbons you shared but I especially love your closing on personal motivations. We all need to be reminded of time to time: many thanks and great channel.
Bowman is a combination of mashbill1 and mashbill2. It is distilled to a high wine, which is then distilled a third time to new make. I totally agree with your alternatives. Subscribed.
I work for Fine Spirits Store. Our guest are always looking for everything in Buffalo Trace Releases. I know its a Hype to all whiskey drinkers. What I enjoy is educated everyone on different brand names. What to look for on taste notes. What the terms mean. Not everything thats is in high price means its the best. _____ You are honest in your videos. I like the way you bring forward the information. I just subscribed. ✔️
For a new whiskey advocate that was pressured into the blantons hype, these are much more widely available at my local stores, and so far, they all have the utmost quality for the price! Thank you for the list! These videos help entry-level enthusiasts like myself get into the market without having to shell out double and triple msrp for allocated products!
Great video! I really need to start making a series for people in ABC states! Our options here in VA are very restricted (unless you are going to chase drops, which I am just not up for). Of what you showed, only Smokewagon is likely to be found on VA ABC store shelves with any sort of regularity. I am pretty committed to "bang for buck" of what I can expect to actually find on the shelf on any given day. Forester 1910 and 1920, Four Roses Small and Small Select, Elijah Craig Small, Woodford D.O., Russell's 10 (sometimes single), Bulleit 10, Wild Turkey Rare, and Knob 9 are all good bottles you can reliably expect to find at a VA ABC store on any given day. At $55-60/1.75L, Elijah Craig Small Batch is as good a mixer as you can buy (I mostly consume my bournon in Old Fashioned form). Glad to see another channel making great bourbon content! :)
Thank you for putting that out there. I’ve known this but people with too much money love to throw it away on “collectible” whiskies. I remember buying EH Taylor sb for $65-75 three yrs ago. Now it’s @250 if you can find it, maybe more. Stop throwing away your money. Unless you have too much and can throw it away. Then by all means 😝
Cool! An Omega Man doing his thing and helping people out. also thanks for your service. Sadly word has gotten out out that Eagle Rare and John J Bowman are comparables to Blanton's that they've all been scooped up in my area. ER is close to $70 now if you can find it. The Blanton's fans in my area didn't think Smoke Wagon was a good comparable as they're left on shelves now. Frank August isn't available to me. Well hoping there is a sequel to this video. Shawn who recommended the OF 1910 may be onto something.
I love Eagle Rare but in Illinois it’s hard to find. I’m drinking Old Forester 1897, tonight. Surprisingly, Smoke Wagon is available at a local grocery store. I will give that one a try!
Curious to hear what you think about Smoke Wagon. For me it was overpowering and I struggled to enjoy a small glass of it. Took me a couple years to finish, even with help from friends.
Eagle Rare and Russell's Reserve are my go-to items. Smoke Wagon is great too . Best way to get your hands on hard-to-get items is to get to know the manager of your favorite liquor store. Where I'm at, liquor stores save the super hard-to-get stuff for restaurants, but can let you know when they get something in that you've been waiting for.
People should do more blinds…they will find out pretty quickly which ones are not only cheaper but better testing. We found Green River out tasted Blantons. It’s on the shelf everywhere and it’s $30.
I"m certainly going to try to find a John Bowman, had never heard of it. My drive is my family -- continuing to push myself daily to be a better husband and father than I was the day before! Life is good man, have a great day!
I’ve always loved the Buffalo Trace products (my favourite being Elmer T Lee), but I’ve never been a big fan of Blanton. I’m really going for Russel’s Reserve 10 year and Smooth Amber Contradiction as my go to drinkers, with everything else being allocated. Great video!
Fantastic, just had Blantons this wk and my friend paid $130 for the bottle, thank you so much, I think Bowman and August is where I'm Landing and keeping an eye out for Blantons at a lower cost 😀
Very nice list with solid tasting note descriptions and additional information. I may substitute Russell's Reserve Single Barrel for the Smokewagon, but that proof starts to creep up. I've never even heard of Frank August. Good stuff. Subscribed and look forward to your future thoughts.
thanks for the video ... I was given a bottle of Blanton's about 4 years ago but put it in my cabinet and forgot about it until this past Thanksgiving ...
I couldnt agree more with this. The reason that stores will sell at secondary prices or worse is because there are consumers willing to buy at that price. There's no changing what people are willing to buy, but the truth is that it's a purchase based on hype more than anything. Blantons is a fine bourbon, but not for the price it's being gouged at. I'd buy Rare Breed, Larceny or EC BP all day before I have another Blantons.
As a mid 40s east coast Canadian, I primarily drink rum as it is the spirit of choice around these parts with the pirate history and all. I've just returned from a Nashville trip in October and was exposed to whiskey and I'm in love. I'm just really getting in to bourbon right now and it's great! I'm absolutely loving the flavors and the history surrounding this spirit. Blanton's is approximately $72 Canadian around here, about $53 USD. It's currently the most expensive 750 ml bourbon whiskeys available here. I'm not sure if I want to spend an extra $20 Canadian since Blanton seems to be mostly hype. I found a lot of comfort in knob Creek 9-year-old, bulleit bourbon, Buffalo Trace and Makers Mark. Is blanton's really that good?
Thanks for watching Scott, welcome to the bourbon world, be sure to subscribe and learn a ton more. Knob creek 9 year is probably as good as Blanton's is.
He's holding a regular bottle of Blanton's that can be found anywhere, but for some folks who never had it, its worth the hunt and price. When it comes to bourbon/whisky/whiskey the list is way too long to really compare bottles. It comes down to personal preference and how deep your pockets are. Today spending anywhere from 50 to 200 for a bottle is normal for an everyday sipper. For those of us who actually like to drink them and not look at them or resell them like a pair of Nikes. The only true way to compare is to own these bottles and drink them and find the subtle notes and differences in the flavors. Even better is go to the distillery and get educated...
There are so many good bourbons out there now. Blantons is good but there are plenty others that I reach for before Blantons. Blue Run has quickly become a favorite, Elijah Craig has some great releases too. The barrel proof is phenomenal. The toasted barrel as well.
I want to try but around here it’s as much as $600 for the single barrel and $199 at the lowest I’ve seen. Can’t wait till people chill out and relax and we can all get them at normal MSRP.
There is very little chance of getting KC 12 OR JJB or ER in North Carolina., but I like your list!!! OF 1910 and Bardstown Fusion Series is highly recommened!
Respectable list. The liquor store my son manages sells Blanton's for $150 (can you say, "Supply and demand?"). Eagle Rare goes for around $75 in my area. One place in town sells it for around $40 (when they get it) and it is gone in a day. Bowman's at 100 proof? Add a little splash of water and smooth it out. Smoke Wagon is one I have not tried, Given it is a high rye bourbon, I would have to be in the mood. Buffalo Trace is going to be special order in the future (according to our state's liquor commission), so I expect the price will go up in this area on this great bourbon (my favorite inexpensive bourbon). Thanks for the video!
I paid $100 for Blanton's because it was my first time finding it and trying it. It was good but not only do I agree with you, I've been telling people it isn't worth the marked up cost if and when it is found.
I'm in VA and John J Bowman is becoming almost impossible to find anymore but I agree that it's really good. I've bought 3 Blanton's at retail in the last month and only found 1 JJB.
@@riseandgrind1911 They had none to sell a few months ago at the distillery...only had their gin and vodka. I'll have to try again soon. They changed bottles so I know they were selling all existing stock first and the one I found was the new bottle.
@Joe Washington Hey Joe. For some reason I dont really "like" Bookers. Its always so hot in my opinion. If I score a good bottle I'll throw up a review.
New to the channel and the fb group where I found your vid. Good list. As a small time youtuber myself, time stamps could help out tons. Don't even need to spoil the names, just put the numbers. Otherwise nice video.
Blanton’s, Smoke Wagon and Eagle Rare is allocated here and is sniped up so fast here from Hoarders and second hand sellers and marked up so high it’s not worth buying. So I stick with other good bourbons I can get at MSRP. There are so many greedy liquor stores and people around where I live.
I like KC12 a lot but prefer the SBS. Maybe not the right comparison for this because of the higher proof. Can't find the others where I live but I know August is supposed to be great and I've enjoyed Bowman small batch, very apple forward which I love. ER10 used to be on the shelf for like 30 bucks, was a go to always on my cart. Haven't seen it in years in PA.
I was gifted a bottle of Widow Jane 10 year old bourbon for Christmas last week. I was very surprised at how smooth is it for a blended bourbon, 91 proof. I'm really enjoying it. I believe it's about $75 for a bottle. I probably wouldn't buy it myself, I prefer Woodford Reserve, but it's a nice sipping bourbon.
I was just at the Bowman distillery for their lottery release of the A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength. While there they had no problem confirming their "juice" comes from BT and goes through a final distillation before barreling. What I cannot confirm is which mash bill they are getting since BT uses 2 primary formulas. I completely agree with your assessment of John Bowman and Isaac Bowman. I cannot compare to Blanton's because I haven't been able to get my hands on a bottle yet. I still haven't opened the Bowman Cask Strength, saving it for a special occasion.
@@riseandgrind1911 I subscribed. As generous of an offer as that is, I will have to pass… lol. I haven’t searched your videos yet. Have you reviewed Calumet 15 or 16 yet?
@@RithKem just opened it. I have to agree. I’m not good at picking up scents but the nose wasn’t anything special or overpowering, just mild. The flavors (also not good at picking them out) hit you right away. The heat sets in quickly but nothing like what I expected 144 proof to be. The finish is the real strength here. It’s like a fruity chocolate and just lingers for several minutes after. 10/10 recommend.
Needs to be about 10 to 20 more proof points and then it would be great. Same with the BT products other than the staggs. Higher ABV would help all brands still not sure why they still make 40abv. Even for new drinkers 90 to 100 is the sweet spot. And most people that don’t like higher proof will just mix their drinks.
My man... "Better" is always subjective. I enjoy many different bourbons including Blanton's, it just depends on what I feel like that particular evening... Lower rye, higher rye or perhaps a wheated. That's the great thing about having a well rounded collection. And yes, I like Blanton's a lot! Making videos like this just compounds the "hype" and hysteria, while simultaneously giving haters a reason to bitch/whine... I like hearing various opinions because it gives me a reason to try others, but at the end of the day, drink what you enjoy and never listen to anyone other than yourself on what's "better"... Cheers 🥃
Man, great video! Agree Blantons is great but never pay over retail for it. I paid $55 plus tax for Blantons. Unfortunately Eagles Rare is becoming difficult to find. Thanks for this video I will be picking up your recommendations.
Great information I agree with another commenter. Eagle Rare is almost impossible to find in NJ. and I've been looking every week. I'd be interested in your thoughts about Angel's Envy.
Thank you Jim. I've got to get back on the Angel Envy train, I jumped off a few years ago. I didnt like it back then, I heard the finished series is a lot better.
7 years ago blantons was on the shelf all the time at 45 a bottle. All the hype made it hard to get and i just dont even look for it. One that is very very easy sipper is Basil Haydens, its my top sipper right now. Been thru a gaunlet of bourbons and this one sticks out as one of the tops, i hated pappy, way too light flavored and sharp on the tongue.
Man where did you find Eagle Rare for $ 40.00?? I live in Ohio and if you find that stuff it’s over 120.00 per bottle… if you find it!! But I agree with what you say about alternative to Blantons!
Good luck finding John J Bowman...it is not sold in the entire state of Florida only Bowman Brothers small batch. I have nine bottles of JJB but only because I scored on six bottles in Knoxville last month. I would put Henry McKenna 10yr on this list.
Love knob creek never had 12 year, special reserve 120 is very good! The best I ever had was old granddad 114 that I saved for my mother's funeral that sat for 14 years when my dad passed . WOWWWWW
I went to A Bowman and I asked this exact question about John J. It is not Blanton’s, period the end. They receive a processed mash from Buffalo Trace that they ask for. Let me repeat.. they use their own recipes for the mashbill. They get the processed mashbill from B.T. They distill and store in house. They do not receive Blanton’s distillate and run it through their copper still!!
Saying “never pay more than $75” is a bit rich considering if you live in some parts of the country you will never find it for that price. The correct statement is, “pay what you are comfortable with paying for this bottle, but know that the true value of this bottle may not be worth more than $75.” I religiously searched for 9 months and the best price I ever found was $99. Pay what is right for you based on your income and your desire.
I love Blanton's, always want it on my shelf, but I also would never pay more than $80 for it. Great recs. 👍 But I have 3 Blanton's rn, so I'm good. 👊🥃
I have often heard that Blanton's is a 30 dollar bourbon in a 30 dollar bottle. Now I have one on my shelf for show, unopened and I plan for it to stay that way. Eagle Rare is excellent. If you want to know what Blanton's taste like, you can get 90% of the experience by buying Ancient Age. I'm serious. Yes it's bottom shelf but it shares the same mash bill as Blanton's and they have put an incredible amount of care into Ancient Age. Try it and you will be surprised at the quality. I put it in a decanter and people love it and think it is "high class".
Thanks for the content. Actually, Eagle Rare is a better sipper IMO. Also, Old Forester 1910, Woodford Double Oaked and Russells 10 yr, and Mitchters Small Batch should be on this list. Cheers 🥃
Thanks for watching Shawn. I think Eagle Rare is more fruity where Blanton is more caramel. I love the OF 1920, havent tried the 1910 yet. For some reason I didnt love the Woodford. Check out the next video dropping on Thursday.
@@riseandgrind1911 no problem brother! 1920 is arguably the best shelfer you can find, but there's always a debate of which one is better between 1910 and 1920. Proof aside, it usually comes down to personal preference. However, if you combine them both and form the 1915, this is a fantastic blend. Thanks for the content and replying. I will be looking forward to more reviews from your channel. 🥃
Shawn Dent! Great 👍 comments, I am a big fan of Michters and Eagle Rare-- I sipped a glass of Michters US-1 a night 🌙 ago and it is a btl. of WOW! ( Scotch test dummies say that about Elijah Craig barrel 😳 proof , which it is , also, I like Eagle Rare bec.it is high rye content AND 10 years old, cheers from ETn!🥃
@@richardbarrick1492 Anything with heavy rye wins my vote. Thats why I also like Smoke Wagon.
@@riseandgrind1911 You RIGHT! WOODFORD D.O. is TOO "oaky".
Makes me cringe.
I thot "LARCENY" was s'posed tobe a poor man's Blanton's.
Great list here! Unfortunately Eagle Rare is becoming tough to find, due to hoarders and flippers. But I completely agree that Eagle Rare is a phenomenal value and great alternative to Blantons. Great video! Cheers.
Thanks for watching Christian. I didnt like Eagle Rare at first, until I learned about the hype around it. I wished that $40 bottle could be treated for what it is.
@@riseandgrind1911 Eagle Rare is harder to get where I live than Blantons &is $100+. I have to get it when I'm out of state & buy 2-3 bottles when I find it
@@kevinholley2293 Hey Kevin, Eagle Rare was recently in grocery stores by me ( So Cal).
I agree Eagle Rare has become difficult to find and in my area if you do find it it's priced at 60-70.
Eagle rare is certainly rare now. It was always $30. Now suddenly it’s $70 plus. If you can find it.
I don't have patience or money for the unicorns,I will stick with my WT 101.
I agree. Check out my video on beginner bourbons, WT 101 in there. Releasing a video of top bourbons under $50 on Thursday.
WT101 is better than Blanton’s.
Love WT 101
Too high proof for me
@@bradderzj4568 What about the lower proof WT ? I also like Elijah.Craig and Buffalo Trace.
Got sick on bourbon when I was 10 and didn’t touch it again until 60. The only one I’ve had that I like is Frey Ranch Uncut, but can’t live without Islay Whisky! Never had Blanton’s.
Thanks for your service brother!
Thanks for watching.
Love the bourbons you shared but I especially love your closing on personal motivations. We all need to be reminded of time to time: many thanks and great channel.
Thank you. The whiskey and cigars that I talked about arent that important, my hope is to help someone in their life.
Bowman is a combination of mashbill1 and mashbill2. It is distilled to a high wine, which is then distilled a third time to new make. I totally agree with your alternatives. Subscribed.
Thank you Robert, really appreciate it.
Great presentation brother. All good stuff
@@cliffleath7983 Thank you Cliff.
I work for Fine Spirits Store.
Our guest are always looking for everything in Buffalo Trace Releases.
I know its a Hype to all whiskey drinkers.
What I enjoy is educated everyone on different brand names.
What to look for on taste notes.
What the terms mean.
Not everything thats is in high price means its the best.
_____
You are honest in your videos.
I like the way you bring forward the information. I just subscribed. ✔️
Much appreciated!
Welcome aboard!
For a new whiskey advocate that was pressured into the blantons hype, these are much more widely available at my local stores, and so far, they all have the utmost quality for the price! Thank you for the list! These videos help entry-level enthusiasts like myself get into the market without having to shell out double and triple msrp for allocated products!
Really happy that it helped you Dustin. Please be sure to subscribe and continue on this journey with us.
Great closing comments! Tasty recommendations, some first-hand research is definitely in order.
Let me know what the research reveals.
Great video! I really need to start making a series for people in ABC states! Our options here in VA are very restricted (unless you are going to chase drops, which I am just not up for). Of what you showed, only Smokewagon is likely to be found on VA ABC store shelves with any sort of regularity. I am pretty committed to "bang for buck" of what I can expect to actually find on the shelf on any given day. Forester 1910 and 1920, Four Roses Small and Small Select, Elijah Craig Small, Woodford D.O., Russell's 10 (sometimes single), Bulleit 10, Wild Turkey Rare, and Knob 9 are all good bottles you can reliably expect to find at a VA ABC store on any given day. At $55-60/1.75L, Elijah Craig Small Batch is as good a mixer as you can buy (I mostly consume my bournon in Old Fashioned form). Glad to see another channel making great bourbon content! :)
Hey Aaron, I figured you would have easy access to John Bowman. 1920 is another great choice.
@@riseandgrind1911 I'll take a look next time I am out! :)
@@riseandgrind1911 Ironically enough, I would have to drive all the way to Charlottesville to get a bottle! (3 hrs)
@@SPAMsammiches Not worth it at that point, get a 1920.
@@riseandgrind1911 (Got a 1910 and a 20 on the shelf behind me)
Great video! Lots of detail but not over done. Straight to the point.
Thank you Mark, really appreciate it. Be sure to subscribe if you havent already.
"Until the pain of stayin' the same is greater than the pain of change, you won't ." Great words from a wise man. Cheers... 🥃
Thank you Mike, well said.
Thank you for putting that out there. I’ve known this but people with too much money love to throw it away on “collectible” whiskies. I remember buying EH Taylor sb for $65-75 three yrs ago. Now it’s @250 if you can find it, maybe more. Stop throwing away your money. Unless you have too much and can throw it away. Then by all means 😝
Well said, thanks for watching.
Cool! An Omega Man doing his thing and helping people out. also thanks for your service. Sadly word has gotten out out that Eagle Rare and John J Bowman are comparables to Blanton's that they've all been scooped up in my area. ER is close to $70 now if you can find it. The Blanton's fans in my area didn't think Smoke Wagon was a good comparable as they're left on shelves now. Frank August isn't available to me. Well hoping there is a sequel to this video. Shawn who recommended the OF 1910 may be onto something.
Hey Dean, thanks for watching. OF 1920 is really good. Might need an ice cube at first.
I get a very similar nose on Buffalo Trace kosher wheat as Blanton's. The Kosher Wheat is definitely a good substitute.
@@williamfotiou7577 I've been hearing about this pour, I got to check it out.
Nice and objective presentation. My husband often buys Blantons, and he hadn't heard of a couple of the alternatives you mentioned.
Hello Samantha, glad it helped him. Thanks for watching. Please subscribe if you haven't already.
Absolutely well spoken my guy!!
Thank you Ron.
I love Eagle Rare but in Illinois it’s hard to find. I’m drinking Old Forester 1897, tonight. Surprisingly, Smoke Wagon is available at a local grocery store. I will give that one a try!
Hey Brad, thank you for watching. If you like rye you will love Smoke Wagon.
Curious to hear what you think about Smoke Wagon. For me it was overpowering and I struggled to enjoy a small glass of it. Took me a couple years to finish, even with help from friends.
@@TheVsa17 Smoke Wagon Uncut is one of my favorite bourbons. I mention it in several other video, I believe in best for 2023.
hope I can find some of these in the NC ABC stores. Thanks for the recomendations.
Thanks for watching.
Eagle Rare and Russell's Reserve are my go-to items. Smoke Wagon is great too . Best way to get your hands on hard-to-get items is to get to know the manager of your favorite liquor store. Where I'm at, liquor stores save the super hard-to-get stuff for restaurants, but can let you know when they get something in that you've been waiting for.
Great tip, just about all my allocated stuff came by way of relationships.
Once again excellent presentation and recommendations. Being a Louisville, Kentucky native I approve this message.
Much appreciated Torean, please be sure to subscribe and check out the other content.
@@riseandgrind1911 just subscribed friend, I will definitely check out your catalog
@@toreansprouls1063 Thank you!
People should do more blinds…they will find out pretty quickly which ones are not only cheaper but better testing. We found Green River out tasted Blantons. It’s on the shelf everywhere and it’s $30.
I love green river, especially the full proof. Thanks for watching
I"m certainly going to try to find a John Bowman, had never heard of it. My drive is my family -- continuing to push myself daily to be a better husband and father than I was the day before! Life is good man, have a great day!
Great insight. I'm sure you are an amazing father and a great husband.
I’ve always loved the Buffalo Trace products (my favourite being Elmer T Lee), but I’ve never been a big fan of Blanton. I’m really going for Russel’s Reserve 10 year and Smooth Amber Contradiction as my go to drinkers, with everything else being allocated.
Great video!
Thank Andrew, really appreciate the support. I havent heard of that SAC, I'll have to check it out.
Russell reserve single barrel is my favorite
Thanks for watching.
I definitely agree with smoke wagon...unfortunately haven't had the others but I should try them now.
Thanks for watching Darren.
It's my first time watching you. Like your ending. Thanks for sharing your message
Thank you Kalman, please be sure to check out the other videos.
Great list! I have found that Redemption Bourbon ( MGP juice) has a similar taste profile to regular Blanton's. Quite enjoyable. Cheers!
Thanks for the tip, I also like the Redemption Rye. Thanks for watching and be sure to subscribe.
Fantastic, just had Blantons this wk and my friend paid $130 for the bottle, thank you so much, I think Bowman and August is where I'm Landing and keeping an eye out for Blantons at a lower cost 😀
Thanks for watching Robert, glad you enjoyed it.
I'm glad you agree, I thought that about six years ago
Thanks for watching.
Eagle rare is allocated in my area -- just as difficult to find as Blantons. Love it, but hard to find
Thanks for watching.
Great List. Beyond Eagle Rare all other are not so common suggestions and they are great...
Thank you Fernando, please be sure to check out my other videos. Thanks for watching.
Good list ! Usually a lot of these lists are ridiculous bullsh#t but i actually agree with all your picks so well done.
Thank you Greg. My list are based on my years of trying to figure things out. The truth and nothing but the truth lol.
9:30 AMENNNNN to that brother!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Thank you sir, please be sure to subscribe
Very nice list with solid tasting note descriptions and additional information. I may substitute Russell's Reserve Single Barrel for the Smokewagon, but that proof starts to creep up. I've never even heard of Frank August. Good stuff. Subscribed and look forward to your future thoughts.
Thank you very much Jeff. I thought about the Russell's, but it would have to be a really good store pick. Some of them are a bit flat to me.
Just subscribed. Enjoyed the review and motivation talk. Looking forward to watching your channel grow!!!
Thank you, I really appreciate it. Another video coming out later today.
thanks for the video ... I was given a bottle of Blanton's about 4 years ago but put it in my cabinet and forgot about it until this past Thanksgiving ...
Hope you enjoy it!
I couldnt agree more with this. The reason that stores will sell at secondary prices or worse is because there are consumers willing to buy at that price.
There's no changing what people are willing to buy, but the truth is that it's a purchase based on hype more than anything. Blantons is a fine bourbon, but not for the price it's being gouged at.
I'd buy Rare Breed, Larceny or EC BP all day before I have another Blantons.
Totally agree. ECBP is my favorite bourbon.
+1
@@hunterford9018 Thanks for the support.
John Wick drinks that on part 1, and part 2 was Blanton's green label, and in Constantine it was ardbeg hehehe😎😎😎💪🍻🥃🍻🥃👌✌️👍
Interesting!
As a mid 40s east coast Canadian, I primarily drink rum as it is the spirit of choice around these parts with the pirate history and all. I've just returned from a Nashville trip in October and was exposed to whiskey and I'm in love. I'm just really getting in to bourbon right now and it's great! I'm absolutely loving the flavors and the history surrounding this spirit. Blanton's is approximately $72 Canadian around here, about $53 USD. It's currently the most expensive 750 ml bourbon whiskeys available here. I'm not sure if I want to spend an extra $20 Canadian since Blanton seems to be mostly hype. I found a lot of comfort in knob Creek 9-year-old, bulleit bourbon, Buffalo Trace and Makers Mark. Is blanton's really that good?
Thanks for watching Scott, welcome to the bourbon world, be sure to subscribe and learn a ton more. Knob creek 9 year is probably as good as Blanton's is.
Go ahead and get into a bottle of Wild Turkey 101. Is it exceptional, no, but it is very drinkable and very predictable.
@@jolkraeremeark6949 Check out my video on best bourbons under $50.
He's holding a regular bottle of Blanton's that can be found anywhere, but for some folks who never had it, its worth the hunt and price. When it comes to bourbon/whisky/whiskey the list is way too long to really compare bottles. It comes down to personal preference and how deep your pockets are. Today spending anywhere from 50 to 200 for a bottle is normal for an everyday sipper. For those of us who actually like to drink them and not look at them or resell them like a pair of Nikes. The only true way to compare is to own these bottles and drink them and find the subtle notes and differences in the flavors. Even better is go to the distillery and get educated...
Great insight. Thanks for sharing.
There are so many good bourbons out there now. Blantons is good but there are plenty others that I reach for before Blantons. Blue Run has quickly become a favorite, Elijah Craig has some great releases too. The barrel proof is phenomenal. The toasted barrel as well.
I agree Hunter. Elijah Craig was the first bourbon I loved.
I've been drinking the John J. Bowman Single Barrel for years. One of my favorites, and much better than Blanton's. The Port Finish is great as well.
Hey Chris, thanks for watching. I cant wait to have a bottle of the cask strength.
I want to try but around here it’s as much as $600 for the single barrel and $199 at the lowest I’ve seen. Can’t wait till people chill out and relax and we can all get them at normal MSRP.
I agree with you on all points. So, I'm drinking a dram of Blanton's and celebrating. Maybe I'll pour an Eagle Rare too! Happy New Year!
Enjoy William. Happy New Year. Thank you for watching.
There is very little chance of getting KC 12 OR JJB or ER in North Carolina., but I like your list!!! OF 1910 and Bardstown Fusion Series is highly recommened!
Thanks for watching Jon. Fusion is a great choice, especially for the summer.
Respectable list. The liquor store my son manages sells Blanton's for $150 (can you say, "Supply and demand?"). Eagle Rare goes for around $75 in my area. One place in town sells it for around $40 (when they get it) and it is gone in a day. Bowman's at 100 proof? Add a little splash of water and smooth it out. Smoke Wagon is one I have not tried, Given it is a high rye bourbon, I would have to be in the mood. Buffalo Trace is going to be special order in the future (according to our state's liquor commission), so I expect the price will go up in this area on this great bourbon (my favorite inexpensive bourbon). Thanks for the video!
Thank you Michael, thanks for watching. I just bought a bottle of BF at Whole Foods today just because $25. They give it away in So Cal.
I paid $100 for Blanton's because it was my first time finding it and trying it. It was good but not only do I agree with you, I've been telling people it isn't worth the marked up cost if and when it is found.
Its something you have to taste, but there are better bottles.
I'm in VA and John J Bowman is becoming almost impossible to find anymore but I agree that it's really good. I've bought 3 Blanton's at retail in the last month and only found 1 JJB.
Hey Aaron, it might come down to visiting the Bowman Dist. In Fredericksburg just to get a $50 bottle.
@@riseandgrind1911 They had none to sell a few months ago at the distillery...only had their gin and vodka. I'll have to try again soon. They changed bottles so I know they were selling all existing stock first and the one I found was the new bottle.
@@AaronJacka Wow, not being able to get a product from its own distillery is crazy.
Bourbon review was great. Didn't know why it went into a motivational speech.
Hello Mike, my purpose is above bourbon, I'm trying to help others. Thats the nature of my content.
I’m going to look for Frank August. Sounds great. Love to try it.
You wont be sorry Joseph. They are now even aging in exotic barrels (Japanese).
Just starting my bourbon collection. 1st bottle was Woodford Reserve; just added Russell’s. Thanks for posting, fellow Greek. 🤙🏾
Welcome aboard Omari, be sure to subscribe, you'll love the journey.
@Joe Washington Hey Joe. For some reason I dont really "like" Bookers. Its always so hot in my opinion. If I score a good bottle I'll throw up a review.
@Joe Washington It might be the burn. I enjoy other high proof bourbons and feel less burn. I noticed the same thing with Old Grand Dad 114.
I appreciate your opinion and I concur, solid alternate choices to Blanton's.
Thank you Clint. Be sure to subscribe.
@@riseandgrind1911 for sure bud.
New to the channel and the fb group where I found your vid. Good list. As a small time youtuber myself, time stamps could help out tons. Don't even need to spoil the names, just put the numbers. Otherwise nice video.
Thank you, welcome to the journey. Glad you enjoyed the video.
Great list! Thank you for sharing this with us. I will definitely be purchasing some of these over this year.
Thank you Margaret, please subscribe for more great content.
Blanton’s, Smoke Wagon and Eagle Rare is allocated here and is sniped up so fast here from Hoarders and second hand sellers and marked up so high it’s not worth buying. So I stick with other good bourbons I can get at MSRP. There are so many greedy liquor stores and people around where I live.
Price gouging is ruining the industry. Check out my latest video on great bourbons under $50.
@@riseandgrind1911 thanks I will watch it asap
I like KC12 a lot but prefer the SBS. Maybe not the right comparison for this because of the higher proof. Can't find the others where I live but I know August is supposed to be great and I've enjoyed Bowman small batch, very apple forward which I love. ER10 used to be on the shelf for like 30 bucks, was a go to always on my cart. Haven't seen it in years in PA.
Hey Hans, thanks for watching. For some reason I dont like the KC single barrels, I think its the high proof not being aged enough.
I was gifted a bottle of Widow Jane 10 year old bourbon for Christmas last week. I was very surprised at how smooth is it for a blended bourbon, 91 proof. I'm really enjoying it. I believe it's about $75 for a bottle. I probably wouldn't buy it myself, I prefer Woodford Reserve, but it's a nice sipping bourbon.
I've been hearing good things about Widow Jane.
I thought it was so smooth I didn't like it, especially at the price.
Willet pot still is an easy drinker $53.00 at total wine here in northwest Florida.
Thank you Chad.
I was just at the Bowman distillery for their lottery release of the A. Smith Bowman Cask Strength. While there they had no problem confirming their "juice" comes from BT and goes through a final distillation before barreling. What I cannot confirm is which mash bill they are getting since BT uses 2 primary formulas. I completely agree with your assessment of John Bowman and Isaac Bowman. I cannot compare to Blanton's because I haven't been able to get my hands on a bottle yet. I still haven't opened the Bowman Cask Strength, saving it for a special occasion.
Hey Gary, I would trade all of my Blanton's for the A Bowman lol. Thanks for confirming my suspicions. Please subscribe if you havent already.
@@riseandgrind1911 I subscribed. As generous of an offer as that is, I will have to pass… lol. I haven’t searched your videos yet. Have you reviewed Calumet 15 or 16 yet?
@@garyb6670 Hey Gary, I havent reviewed the Calumet 16 yet but its in an upcoming video, Bourbons to celebrate with. Be sure to subscribe.
A Smith bowman cask is 🔥🔥
@@RithKem just opened it. I have to agree. I’m not good at picking up scents but the nose wasn’t anything special or overpowering, just mild. The flavors (also not good at picking them out) hit you right away. The heat sets in quickly but nothing like what I expected 144 proof to be. The finish is the real strength here. It’s like a fruity chocolate and just lingers for several minutes after. 10/10 recommend.
Needs to be about 10 to 20 more proof points and then it would be great. Same with the BT products other than the staggs. Higher ABV would help all brands still not sure why they still make 40abv. Even for new drinkers 90 to 100 is the sweet spot. And most people that don’t like higher proof will just mix their drinks.
Thank you Scott, I agree, I shoot for about 115.
ROO to the bruhz! I’m on the wine, team!
RQQ! Thanks for the support team.
My man... "Better" is always subjective. I enjoy many different bourbons including Blanton's, it just depends on what I feel like that particular evening... Lower rye, higher rye or perhaps a wheated. That's the great thing about having a well rounded collection. And yes, I like Blanton's a lot! Making videos like this just compounds the "hype" and hysteria, while simultaneously giving haters a reason to bitch/whine... I like hearing various opinions because it gives me a reason to try others, but at the end of the day, drink what you enjoy and never listen to anyone other than yourself on what's "better"... Cheers 🥃
Thanks for watching and the great thoughts Keith.
Eagle Rare is impossible to find along with all Buffalo Trace but its MSRP should be closer to $30 than $40-45
Thank you Brian, thanks for watching.
Wow!! I've been snubbing that eagle when I go to our local liquor store 😅😅😅 now I might get one 👍👍👌🍻🥃🍻🥃✌️
You should! Thanks for watching, be sure to subscribe.
I'm not even burbon guy, but love your vibe.
Thank you, really appreciate it.
Thanks for the eye opener
You are welcome, thanks for watching.
Great content.. I’m lucky enough to buy Blantons at 62.00 .. will try some from your list. I also like eagle rare here and E.H .Taylor
Hey Jose, thank you for watching. Be sure to subscribe.
it's been a super pain to get wellers antique thanks to some people standing in line on the day the liquor store gets the shipment in
True, thanks for watching, there's always something else to enjoy.
KNOBB CREEK IS GOOD FOR ME.
I agree.
Great video, well spoken too! Thank you!
Thank you, really appreciate it. Please be sure to subscribe to help the channel.
Bowman - absolutely! Taste them side by side.
Bowman has more flavor because of the proof in my opinion. Thanks for watching George.
Man, great video! Agree Blantons is great but never pay over retail for it. I paid $55 plus tax for Blantons. Unfortunately Eagles Rare is becoming difficult to find. Thanks for this video I will be picking up your recommendations.
Hey James, thanks for watching. Please subscribe and continue to enjoy the content. Another video being released on Thursday.
Great information I agree with another commenter. Eagle Rare is almost impossible to find in NJ. and I've been looking every week. I'd be interested in your thoughts about Angel's Envy.
Thank you Jim. I've got to get back on the Angel Envy train, I jumped off a few years ago. I didnt like it back then, I heard the finished series is a lot better.
RQQ Team! I pass this up for Eagle Rare every time. Especially if I already have some Blanton’s at home.
RQQ, thanks for watching.
I'm hoarding my two bottles of Blantons and gently sipping my Eagle Rare
Lol.
Great content Pastor McKenzie! 🔥🍷
Thank you sir!
Thanks for the content. I like your delivery style! Nice job.
Thank you Bob, I really appreciate it.
I’ve been sipping on 1792 small batch, I’m really starting to enjoy it a lot!!!
Its good, really like the Full proof.
I bought a bottle yesterday at retail after talking with the store manager for a bit, and he realized I was not going to flip it!
Thank you, thats all that it takes. Each of my bottles came the same way.
Eagle rare 45 msrp, 130 shelf. Good luck finding it for less than 100.
Hey Mike, I just saw it for $50 at my local liquor store.
When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you will be successful.
Truth.
I had a bottle of Blanton. It’s ok. I prefer old Forester 1920, heaven hill bottled in bond and Noah mill
Hey Christopher, I much prefer 1920. Thanks for watching, please subscribe if you havent.
Sometimes the higher the proof the better the flavor and you can more readily pick up the subtle notes.
True, my sweet spot is around 115 proof.
7 years ago blantons was on the shelf all the time at 45 a bottle. All the hype made it hard to get and i just dont even look for it. One that is very very easy sipper is Basil Haydens, its my top sipper right now. Been thru a gaunlet of bourbons and this one sticks out as one of the tops, i hated pappy, way too light flavored and sharp on the tongue.
Thanks for watching Carlos. Basil Hayden is at that sipping proof point.
Yeah, Eagle Rare is a great sipper, and I find it nicely unique. And I LOVE your motivational message at the end. Bravo! Keep up the good work.
Thanks so much! Appreciate it Grant.
Good luck finding it. It's tatered as hard as Buffalo Trace and Blanton's.
Man where did you find Eagle Rare for $ 40.00?? I live in Ohio and if you find that stuff it’s over 120.00 per bottle… if you find it!! But I agree with what you say about alternative to Blantons!
Its around $50 now in so Cal. Thanks for watching.
Stop chasing Blantons says the guy with multiple Blantons bottles 😂 great video tho! Elijah Craig is one of my favorite go to bourbons
Thanks for watching.
Good luck finding John J Bowman...it is not sold in the entire state of Florida only Bowman Brothers small batch. I have nine bottles of JJB but only because I scored on six bottles in Knoxville last month. I would put Henry McKenna 10yr on this list.
Thank you Don. Its mainly found in Virginia and the DMV area. McKenna is another great option. Thanks for watching.
Love knob creek never had 12 year, special reserve 120 is very good! The best I ever had was old granddad 114 that I saved for my mother's funeral that sat for 14 years when my dad passed . WOWWWWW
Hello Edward, thank you for watching. My father's name is Edward. I keep a bottle of Old grand on the shelf.
The 12 is good the 15 is good the special reserve is also good. I have all three. Never had a bad bottle of knob creek.
@@chadm6981 Agree, even the 9 year is a good pour.
@@riseandgrind1911 Lol my Dad's name was EDWARD too,I got a bottle of special reserve in hiding for 3 years now.
I agree with you picks. For the record, Blanton’s is actually 93 proof.
Thanks for watching, point noted. You think I would know with three bottles in the house lol.
I went to A Bowman and I asked this exact question about John J. It is not Blanton’s, period the end. They receive a processed mash from Buffalo Trace that they ask for. Let me repeat.. they use their own recipes for the mashbill. They get the processed mashbill from B.T. They distill and store in house. They do not receive Blanton’s distillate and run it through their copper still!!
Thank you.
Dude. First watch of your show. Really liked the inspirational speech at the end. Keep up the good work man. I’m subscribing.
Awesome Rick, thank you! Happy New Year.
LOVED this maan
Thanks
Thanks for watching. Please be sure to subscribe if you haven't already.
Good luck finding it for $70! My wife bought Blantons for my bday and it was $150
True, you've got to be lucky at a place like Total Wines.
Eagle Rare is definitely my favorite
Thanks for watching.
Saying “never pay more than $75” is a bit rich considering if you live in some parts of the country you will never find it for that price. The correct statement is, “pay what you are comfortable with paying for this bottle, but know that the true value of this bottle may not be worth more than $75.” I religiously searched for 9 months and the best price I ever found was $99. Pay what is right for you based on your income and your desire.
Thanks for the insight Andrew.
Just came across your channel, and wow! Awesome content! New subscriber here! Thanks and Happy New Year!
Thank you so much Pedro. Happy New Year.
I love Blanton's, always want it on my shelf, but I also would never pay more than $80 for it. Great recs. 👍 But I have 3 Blanton's rn, so I'm good. 👊🥃
Thanks for watching Carlito, Blantons is a good bourbon. I also have three on hand.
Plenty of better bourbons for $80.
I have often heard that Blanton's is a 30 dollar bourbon in a 30 dollar bottle. Now I have one on my shelf for show, unopened and I plan for it to stay that way. Eagle Rare is excellent. If you want to know what Blanton's taste like, you can get 90% of the experience by buying Ancient Age. I'm serious. Yes it's bottom shelf but it shares the same mash bill as Blanton's and they have put an incredible amount of care into Ancient Age. Try it and you will be surprised at the quality. I put it in a decanter and people love it and think it is "high class".
Thanks Dave, I've heard that about Ancient Age, haven't seen them in a while.
Eagle Rare is available now at my local Costco
And what city is that lol.
$75??? Sheeeit, I’ve gotten all of my bottles of Blanton’s for less than $50 at a Navy package store. I’ve seen Blanton’s in Tampa for $165, wildin!!
Nice! Thanks for watching.