So I did one of those Blanton’s and food tastings. I noted that there was a distinct abv nose from the straight from the barrel (abv 128 proof). One the taste I noted more vanilla which melded well and softened the oaky notes. This was a good dram but admittedly I did soften it with a little water on subsequent tastes. I enjoyed the softer version more ( I don’t traditionally like barrel proof neat). This taste was good but I would gravitate towards the gold reserve or the Kentucky watered down single barrel versions for my money. If you hit a barrel that suits your flavor profile you can’t go wrong. Blanton’s is still what I compare all other bourbons too