Hancock’s vs Blanton’s

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 10:29 pm

Discover the differences between Hancock’s Single Barrel vs Blanton’s Single Barrel in this head-to-head 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

Hancock’s vs Blanton’s: Comparison

Hancock’s Bourbon: A smooth sipper with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of oak spice. Easy to drink but lacks a wow factor. Best enjoyed with a splash of water.

Blanton’s Single Barrel: Rich and complex with a symphony of vanilla, honey, and baking spice. Offers a long, satisfying finish. Ideal for those who cherish depth in their bourbon.

Key Difference: Hancock’s Single Barrel and Blanton’s, both from Buffalo Trace Distillery with a 12%-15% rye mash bill, differ in Blanton’s aging in warehouse H which according to Col. Blanton is the top location within the distillery to age whiskey.

Verdict: Hancock’s Bourbon is a smooth choice for those preferring a gentle sip. Blanton’s Single Barrel shines for its balanced complexity and rich flavor. Both provide quality experiences for their respective styles, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Choose based on your preference and budget.

Related: Top-Rated Single Barrel Whiskeys

Hancock’s Bourbon: Smooth, But Not Show-Stopping

• Nose: Ripe fruit, almond, coconut
• Palate: Vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, oak
• Finish: Caramel, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 89 proof (44.45% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Elmer T. Lee

Looking for a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon? Hancock’s might fit the bill. It’s a gentle sipper with no rough edges, but it might not blow your socks off.

What’s in the glass?

• Nose: Think ripe fruit, almond, and a whisper of oak – pleasant, but not complex.
• Palate: Smooth with vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, and oak, but the body is a bit light.
• Finish: Decent length, but lacks warmth and leans slightly bitter with pronounced oak spice. A drop of water might help.

Smooth, but not special: Hancock’s is easy to drink, but it doesn’t offer much excitement. There are other bourbons in this price range that pack more flavor and complexity.

The lowdown:

• Smooth and drinkable, but not the best body and depth.
• Oak spice is noticeable, especially with water.
• No age statement, so maturity is unknown.

Before you buy: Consider trying other options in this price range for a more flavorful experience.

Ultimately, the choice is yours! If smooth and easy is your priority, Hancock’s might be worth a try. But if you crave bolder flavors, keep exploring!

Blanton’s Single Barrel: Smooth Sipping Satisfaction

• 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: Kentucky Owl

Looking for a bourbon that’s smooth, balanced, and simply delightful? Blanton’s Single Barrel might be your new go-to. This single barrel gem delivers a rich, complex experience that’s perfect for sipping neat.

What’s in the glass?

• Nose: Honey, caramel, a hint of leather, and subtle oak create a warm and inviting aroma.
• Palate: Classic bourbon flavors like butterscotch and vanilla shine, with a touch of rye spice for depth. The texture is rich and creamy, unlike many bourbons.
• Finish: Long, sweet, and warm, with a hint of intrigue in the form of a subtle medicinal note.

More than just smooth: Blanton’s isn’t just about being easy on the palate. It offers a satisfying complexity that keeps you engaged with each sip.

The best part? It’s reasonably priced and easy to find, making it a great choice for everyday enjoyment or special occasions.

Ready to experience Blanton’s magic? Here’s the lowdown:

• Single barrel release for unique character.
• Aged around 6-8 years for maturity.
• Double Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• Nicknamed “liquid gold” by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.

Tip: Enjoy Blanton’s neat to appreciate its full flavor profile.

So, is Blanton’s Single Barrel your kind of bourbon? Give it a try and discover why it’s a favorite among many!

What do Hancock’s and Blanton’s have in common?

Both are made at the Buffalo Trace Distillery using the same mash bill

Hancock’s Single Barrel is crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery using the same mash bill as Blanton’s Single Barrel.

They are made from a mash that contains around 12% to 15% rye, which is also shared by Elmer T. Lee and Rock Hill Farms.

The difference lies in Blanton’s barrels coming from warehouse H which Colonel Blanton identified as the best place to age whiskey and having a bit more proof providing more body to the bourbon.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Bourbon	Price
Hancock’s Single Barrel	$120
Blanton’s Single Barrel	$130