Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 01:33 pm
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.
Uncover distinctions between Kentucky Owl and Blanton’s in this thorough analysis, and make your preferred Bourbon choice!
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
Kentucky Owl vs Blanton’s: Comparison
- Kentucky Owl Confiscated Bourbon presents a robust and complex flavor with prominent oak spice, caramel, and cinnamon on the palate. The nose brings together popcorn, oak, leather, and cherry, creating a rich and intriguing aroma. The finish is long and warm, dominated by oak spice and vanilla, reflecting its 96-proof (48% ABV) strength. This bourbon is best enjoyed with a bit of water to open up its flavors and soften the warmth.
- Blanton’s Single Barrel, on the other hand, is renowned for its smoothness and well-balanced flavor profile. The nose is a delightful mix of vanilla, caramel, oak, and leather, leading to a palate that offers a creamy blend of vanilla, honey, baking spice, and oak. The finish is long and satisfying, with honey, brown sugar, and caramel notes. At 93 proof (46.5% ABV), it provides a rich, yet not overwhelming, sipping experience.
Verdict:
- For Rich Complexity and Warmth: Kentucky Owl Confiscated is a compelling choice for those who enjoy bourbon with a bold oak presence and a spicy kick, offering a complex and warming sipping experience.
- For Smoothness and Balance: Blanton’s Single Barrel is the superior selection, appealing to a broad range of bourbon enthusiasts for its exceptional smoothness, balanced flavors, and unique single-barrel character.
While both bourbons offer distinct experiences, Blanton’s Single Barrel offers unparalleled smoothness and rich, complex flavors, making it a preferred choice for those seeking quality and a memorable sipping experience. Kentucky Owl Confiscated, with its unique and bold flavor profile, remains a solid option for those who appreciate a stronger oak influence and complexity in their bourbon, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Bourbons that taste like Blanton’s
Kentucky Owl Confiscated Bourbon:

- Nose: Popcorn, oak, leather, cherry.
- Palate: Oak spice, caramel, cinnamon, vanilla.
- Finish: Long, with oak spice and vanilla.
- Alcohol Content: 96 proof (48% ABV).
- How to Drink: Best enjoyed with water to soften the warmth.
- Price: $147 (Approximately, may vary).
Blanton’s Single Barrel:

- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, oak, leather.
- Palate: Creamy vanilla, honeyed sweetness, baking spice, oak.
- Finish: Long, with honey, brown sugar, caramel.
- Alcohol Content: 93 proof (46.5% ABV).
- How to Drink: Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
- Price: $130 (Approximately, may vary).
