Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:37 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Blanton’s Single Barrel vs Henry McKenna in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Blanton’s vs Henry McKenna: Comparison
Blanton’s Single Barrel: A harmonious blend of vanilla, caramel, and oak, with an aged leather charm. Offers a creamy, sweet palate with a long, satisfying finish. Celebrated for its smoothness and complexity, it’s an acclaimed choice for enthusiasts.
Henry McKenna 10: Bold and inviting, with a rich mix of vanilla, caramel, and spices. This 10-year single barrel bourbon balances warmth with sweet and oaky notes, making it a standout sip. Appreciated for its depth and versatility.
Verdict: Blanton’s Single Barrel and Henry McKenna 10 each offer distinct bourbon experiences. Blanton’s excels with its smooth, complex flavors, while Henry McKenna brings bold, rich notes with a hint of spice. Both stand tall, showcasing the art of bourbon craftsmanship, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Highly Recommended Single Barrel Bourbons
Blanton’s Single Barrel: Smooth Sailing or Overhyped Hype?
Uncork a Sweet & Smooth Journey
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, oak, old leather
- Palate: Creamy vanilla, honeyed, baking spice, oak
- Finish: Long, honey, brown sugar, caramel
- Alcohol content: 93 proof (46.5% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Elmer T. Lee
Blanton’s Single Barrel promises a unique sip – sweet aromas mingled with hints of aged leather and oak. Sounds intriguing, right?
On the Tongue: Dive into a rich, almost oily texture bursting with butterscotch, vanilla, and a touch of rye spice. A satisfying warmth unfolds, leaving a subtle medicinal whisper on the finish.
Is it Worth the Hype?
Absolutely! Blanton’s delivers exceptional smoothness, balancing sweetness, complexity, and a touch of mystery. It’s an easy drinker that truly lives up to its reputation.
Buttery Bliss: Enjoy it neat to savor the full, luscious body. Feeling a chill? Opt for a large ice ball or whiskey stones to keep things cool without diluting the flavor.
Bonus Buzz:
- Aged around 6-8 years, though no official age statement exists.
- 2012 Double Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Dubbed “liquid gold” by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.
Ready to decide for yourself? Blanton’s awaits, offering a smooth journey with a hint of intrigue.
Uncorking the Truth: Henry McKenna 10 Bourbon
A Bourbon with Bite, But Not a Beast
- Nose: Ethanol, vanilla, caramel, citrus, clove, nutmeg
- Palate: Caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, oak, baking spice
- Finish: Caramel, vanilla, oak
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
Henry McKenna 10 stands out as a single barrel, bottled-in-bond bourbon aged for a cool 10 years. But what does that mean for your taste buds?
First Glance: Expect a bold aroma with a warm hug from the alcohol, followed by inviting scents of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice.
Taking a Sip: The initial heat might surprise you, but it quickly settles into a sweet symphony of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar. Oak influence is mellow, letting other flavors shine.
The Finish: Think medium-length with lingering warmth, rye spice, and hints of familiar sweet notes.
Is it for you?
Pros: Flavorful, unique, and versatile for sipping or cocktails.
Cons: The initial heat might pack a punch for some. Adding a water drop can tame it.
Overall: Bold and boozy, yet enjoyable. It might not be the smoothest, but it delivers character for bourbon lovers and adds depth to cocktails.
Bonus Facts:
- Made by one distillery, during one season, bottled directly from the barrel.
- The only extra-aged, single barrel, bottled-in-bond bourbon around.
- Crafted with a classic corn, rye, and malted barley blend.
- Praised by Whisky Bible and Wine Enthusiast.
Ready to explore Henry McKenna 10? Remember, a little water can unlock its full potential.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Blanton’s Single Barrel | $130 |
| Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled in Bond | $70 |