1. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon

Introduced in 1984 by Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee, Blanton’s was the world’s first commercially available single-barrel bourbon. It is the gold standard for "premium" bourbon and remains one of the most hunted bottles on the market today.

• The Pedigree: Distilled at the Buffalo Trace Distillery from their "Mash Bill #2" (a high-rye recipe). It is aged exclusively in Warehouse H, the only metal-clad warehouse on site, which subjects the barrels to intense temperature swings that accelerate the interaction between the wood and the spirit.

   

• The Profile: * Nose: A inviting bouquet of creamy vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, underscored by nutmeg and cinnamon.

  • Palate: Balanced and sweet with notes of citrus (orange peel), honey, and light oak.

  • Finish: Medium-length with returning hints of corn and baking spices.

• The Iconic Bottle: Easily recognized by its round, faceted "grenade" shape and the collectible Horse and Jockey stopper. There are 8 different stoppers (each featuring a letter to spell B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S) depicting a horse in various stages of a race.

   

2. Willett Pot Still Reserve

If Blanton’s is the "king of the hunt," Willett Pot Still Reserve is the "king of the shelf." Produced by the Willett Distillery (Kentucky Bourbon Distillers) in Bardstown, this bourbon is as much a piece of art as it is a spirit.

• The Pedigree: Originally a single barrel product, it is now a small-batch bourbon. While the name suggests 100% pot still distillation, it is typically a blend that utilizes a pot still for the "doubler" (second) distillation stage to add weight and texture to the mouthfeel.

• The Profile: * Nose: Floral and delicate. You’ll find notes of lemon zest, cherry, and a hint of cedar or "unlit cigar" tobacco.

  • Palate: A softer, more "feminine" bourbon compared to the spice of Blanton’s. It leads with honey, herbal tea, and toasted nut flavors, with a distinct buttery popcorn sweetness.

  • Finish: Clean and slightly herbal with a touch of mint and black pepper.

• The Iconic Bottle: An award-winning glass decanter that is an exact replica of the copper pot still used at the Willett distillery. It’s frequently repurposed as a lamp or a vase by enthusiasts once empty.

   

The Comparison: Why This Bundle Works

Best Way to Enjoy

This bundle is a "flight in a box." Start with the Willett Pot Still—its lighter, more floral profile serves as an excellent aperitif. Move to the Blanton’s second to experience the richer, spicier high-rye notes. Both are best enjoyed neat or with a single large ice cube to open up the aromas.