Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Blanton’s horse and jockey bottle stoppers have become a unique signature of the brand and a coveted collectible among fans.
- The “Blanton’s Gold horse” stopper is part of a series of eight distinctive designs, each spelling out the brand name: B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S.
- The initiative to turn these bottle stoppers into collectible items started in 1999, building on an idea that originated in 1984.
- These horse and jockey stoppers represent stages of a horse race, embodying the spirit of the Kentucky Derby and local heritage.
- Blanton’s offers a complimentary service to mount a complete set of stoppers on a barrel stave used in the bourbon aging process.
Blanton’s and the Journey of the Golden Horse
As the pioneer of single-barrel bourbon, Blanton’s has demonstrated considerable expertise not just in crafting fine spirits but also in branding and marketing. A prime example of this marketing genius is the iconic Blanton’s Gold horse stopper, a small but significant feature that helps Blanton’s bottles stand out on liquor store shelves and spark conversations among enthusiasts.
The Origin of the Horse and Jockey Stoppers
Since Blanton’s inception in 1984, a horse and mounted jockey have graced the top of each bottle stopper. But it was in 1999 that Blanton’s took this a step further by launching a collection of eight distinct horse and jockey stoppers, each featuring a letter that spells out “B-L-A-N-T-O-N-S.” This innovative campaign turned these bottle stoppers into cherished collectibles that bourbon enthusiasts seek to gather.
More Than Just a Stopper: A Tale of Races and Traditions
However, these bottle stoppers are not just about the Blanton’s name. Each of the eight stoppers presents a unique horse and jockey posture, reflecting stages of a horse race – from the trot to the canter to the gallop. This creative design approach embodies the spirit of the local heritage, particularly the excitement and vigor of Derby Days in Kentucky. The final “S” stopper captures the triumphant jockey with his fist raised in the air, signifying a winning race.
The Hunt for the Blanton’s Gold Horse
Over the past two decades, the quest to collect a complete set of Blanton’s stoppers has captivated bourbon fans. Many enthusiasts take to online forums and social media platforms, sharing their successes and frustrations in finding the next letter in their collection. The sense of community around these Blanton’s Gold horse stoppers reflects the brand’s successful engagement with its customers, offering them more than just a delicious bourbon.
Celebrating the Completed Collection
To honor those who manage to collect a complete set of stoppers, Blanton’s offers a unique service. The brand invites collectors to send in their completed set to the Buffalo Trace Distillery, where it gets mounted for free on a barrel stave used in the bourbon aging process. This gesture not only acknowledges the dedication of the brand’s fans but also creates a tangible memento of their Blanton’s journey.
Collecting Blanton’s Gold Horse: A Rewarding Pursuit
In conclusion, the Blanton’s Gold horse stoppers exemplify how a brand can transform an often overlooked detail – a bottle stopper – into an engaging and meaningful part of the customer experience. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or new to the world of spirits, embarking on the quest for a complete set of Blanton’s Gold horse stoppers promises to add an extra layer of excitement to your bourbon journey.
