Blanton's is a bourbon distillery based in Kentucky, producing single barrel bourbon whiskey. The brand is produced at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the United States.

Blanton's is known for its single barrel releases, which means each bottle comes from an individual barrel rather than a blend of multiple barrels. This approach highlights the variation and character that develops during maturation in charred oak casks. Kentucky bourbon is defined by its production in the state, use of a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, and aging in new charred oak barrels—conditions that contribute the whiskey's typical caramel color and vanilla, oak, and corn-forward flavor profile.

The Original Single Barrel is Blanton's flagship expression, bottled at barrel proof and released in limited quantities. Single barrel bourbon enthusiasts value these releases for their individuality; tasting notes and proof vary from barrel to barrel, making each bottle a distinct product rather than a standardized expression.

Kentucky stands as America's bourbon heartland, producing approximately 95% of the world's bourbon whiskey. Located in the south-central United States, the state benefits from limestone-filtered water and a continental climate that creates ideal conditions for whiskey maturation. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail connects major distilleries across the region, with concentrations in Louisville, Bardstown, and Frankfort areas.

The state's limestone bedrock naturally filters groundwater, removing iron that would negatively impact whiskey flavor while adding calcium and magnesium that enhance the mashing process. Kentucky's climate features hot summers and cold winters, creating significant temperature variations that cause barrels to expand and contract, driving the whiskey deeper into the charred oak and extracting flavors, color, and character. The humidity levels also contribute to the "angel's share" evaporation rate that concentrates the remaining spirit.

Kentucky bourbon must contain at least 51% corn in its mash bill, with wheat or rye typically comprising the secondary grain alongside malted barley. The state's distilleries produce distinct styles ranging from wheated bourbons known for their softer character to high-rye bourbons that offer spicier profiles. Rye whiskey production has also experienced renewed interest, requiring at least 51% rye in the grain bill and producing spirits with pronounced spice and complexity distinct from their bourbon counterparts.