Why is Blanton’s so hard to find now?

Why is Blanton's so hard to find now?

Blanton's, a highly sought-after bourbon, has become increasingly difficult to find in recent times. This scarcity is primarily due to the fact that demand for Blanton's far exceeds its supply. While this may seem like an oversimplification, there are several factors that contribute to this phenomenon.

1. Maturation Process: Unlike vodka, gin, or unaged tequila, bourbon needs to be matured in oak barrels for a specific period of time before it can be bottled and sold. Blanton's, like other premium bourbons, is aged for a minimum of six years. This aging process imparts unique flavors, complexity, and depth to the bourbon, making it highly desirable among whiskey enthusiasts. However, this also means that the production of Blanton's is limited by the time it takes for the bourbon to mature.

2. Limited Production Capacity: Blanton's is produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, which has a finite production capacity. While the distillery has been increasing its production over the years, it still has limitations on the number of barrels it can age and the amount of bourbon it can bottle. This restricted production capacity simply cannot keep up with the overwhelming demand for Blanton's.

3. Quality Control: Blanton's is known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The distillery meticulously selects the barrels used for aging, ensuring only the finest bourbon is bottled as Blanton's. This dedication to quality means that not every barrel produced will meet the high standards set by the brand. As a result, only a fraction of the distilled bourbon ends up being deemed worthy of the Blanton's label, further limiting its availability.

4. Global Whiskey Boom: In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of whiskey worldwide. This increased demand for bourbon, particularly premium and limited-edition releases like Blanton's, has put even more strain on the already limited supply. Whiskey enthusiasts and collectors eagerly seek out bottles of Blanton's, driving up the demand and exacerbating the scarcity.

5. Allocation and Distribution Practices: To manage the limited supply of Blanton's, distilleries often employ allocation and distribution practices. This means that certain markets or establishments receive limited quantities of the bourbon, making it even more challenging for consumers to find. While this may frustrate some whiskey enthusiasts, it is a way for distilleries to ensure that Blanton's reaches a wider audience and prevents it from being entirely monopolized by a few individuals.

The scarcity of Blanton's can be attributed to the time-consuming maturation process, limited production capacity, stringent quality control, increased global demand for bourbon, and allocation and distribution practices. These factors collectively create a situation where the demand for Blanton's far surpasses its supply, making it a highly sought-after and elusive bourbon for enthusiasts and collectors alike.