If you’re a fan of bourbon, you’ve likely heard of Evan Williams. This Kentucky-based distillery has been producing high-quality bourbon for over two centuries, and their products are beloved by whiskey enthusiasts all over the world. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the five best Evan Williams bourbons currently available, ranked based on flavor, complexity, and overall quality.
Table of Contents
History of Evan Williams Bourbon
Evan Williams Bourbon is a popular brand of American whiskey that has been enjoyed by many for decades. The brand was introduced in 1957, but its namesake, Evan Williams, was a real person who lived in the late 18th century.
According to historians, Evan Williams was a Welsh immigrant who settled in Kentucky in the late 1780s. He was a distiller who became famous for his whiskey, which was sold in the local area. Williams’ whiskey was known for its high quality and smooth taste, and it quickly gained a reputation as one of the best whiskeys in the region.
Over time, the Evan Williams brand grew in popularity, and it eventually became one of the most well-known and respected bourbon brands in the United States. Today, the brand is owned by Heaven Hill Brands, which is one of the largest independent family-owned and operated spirits companies in the world.
One of the things that sets Evan Williams Bourbon apart from other bourbon brands is its unique flavor profile. The whiskey is made using a combination of corn, rye, and barley, which gives it a distinctive taste that is both sweet and spicy. Additionally, the whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich, smoky flavor that is highly sought after by bourbon enthusiasts.
5 Best Evan Williams Bourbon Varieties
1. Evan Williams Black Label
photo credit: evanwilliams.com
Evan Williams Black Label is the distillery’s flagship bourbon. It’s a classic Kentucky straight bourbon with a smooth, mellow flavor that’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into a cocktail. At around $16 a bottle, it’s also one of the most affordable bourbons on the market.
2. Evan Williams White Label
photo credit: m.media-amazon.com
Evan Williams White Label is a bit stronger than the Black Label, with an alcohol content of 100 proof. It has a bold, spicy flavor that’s perfect for those who like their bourbon with a little kick. It’s also a great value at around $18 a bottle.
3. Evan Williams Single Barrel
photo credit: evanwilliams.com
Evan Williams Single Barrel is a premium bourbon that’s aged for at least 10 years in a single oak barrel. This gives it a rich, complex flavor with notes of honey, caramel, and roasted oak. At around $30 a bottle, it’s a bit pricier than some of the other Evan Williams bourbons, but it’s definitely worth the splurge.
4. Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch
photo credit: evanwilliams.com
Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch is a blend of bourbons that are aged for at least 8 years. It has a smooth, well-balanced flavor with notes of honey, caramel, cinnamon, and oak. It’s a great choice for sipping on its own or mixing into a cocktail. At around $20 a bottle, it’s also a great value.
5. Evan Williams Bottled in Bond
photo credit: evanwilliams.com
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond is a classic Kentucky straight bourbon that’s aged for at least 4 years and bottled at 100 proof. It has a bold, spicy flavor with notes of brown sugar, caramel, and oak. It’s a great choice for those who like their bourbon with a little kick. At around $20 a bottle, it’s also one of the most affordable bottled-in-bond bourbons on the market.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profiles
When it comes to Evan Williams Bourbon, you’ll find a range of flavors and aromas that make each bottle unique. Here are some of the most common tasting notes and flavor profiles you can expect to find in this brand of bourbon:
- Caramel and Vanilla: Many Evan Williams bourbons have a sweet, caramel flavor that’s complemented by notes of vanilla. This combination creates a smooth, easy-to-drink bourbon that’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing into a cocktail.
- Oak and Smoke: Some Evan Williams bourbons have a smoky, woody flavor that comes from the charred oak barrels they’re aged in. This gives the bourbon a more complex, nuanced flavor that’s perfect for those who enjoy a more robust whiskey.
- Spice and Fruit: You’ll also find Evan Williams bourbons that have a spicy, fruity flavor profile. These bourbons often have notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices, as well as hints of apple, pear, or other fruits.
- Smooth and Mellow: No matter which Evan Williams bourbon you choose, you can expect it to be smooth and mellow. This brand is known for producing easy-drinking bourbons that are perfect for those who are new to whiskey or prefer a less intense flavor profile.
How to Enjoy Evan Williams Bourbon
Evan Williams bourbon is a versatile and delicious spirit that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your Evan Williams bourbon experience:
- Neat: One of the best ways to enjoy Evan Williams bourbon is straight up, or “neat.” This allows you to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of the bourbon. Pour a small amount into a glass, and take your time sipping and savoring it.
- On the rocks: If you prefer your bourbon a little cooler, try it on the rocks. Fill a glass with ice and pour your Evan Williams bourbon over it. The ice will help to dilute the bourbon slightly and bring out different flavors.
- In a cocktail: Evan Williams bourbon is also a great base for cocktails. Try it in a classic Old Fashioned or Manhattan, or experiment with your own creations. The rich, smooth flavor of Evan Williams bourbon pairs well with a variety of mixers.
- With food: Bourbon is a great accompaniment to many foods, particularly those with rich, bold flavors. Try pairing Evan Williams bourbon with grilled meats, sharp cheeses, or dark chocolate for a delicious combination.
- As a gift: Evan Williams bourbon also makes a great gift for the bourbon lover in your life. Consider pairing it with a set of glasses or a cocktail book for a thoughtful and unique present.
Conclusion
Evan Williams offers a range of bourbons to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional straight bourbons or enjoy experimenting with flavored options, there’s a bottle of Evan Williams that’s perfect for you.
Related Posts
If you’re a fan of Evan Williams Bourbon, then you might be interested in trying out some other bourbons as well. Here are some related posts that you might find helpful:
- 8 Best Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey Alternatives You Need to Try: Looking for a new bourbon whiskey to try besides Jim Beam? Check out this list of 8 of the best Jim Beam bourbon whiskey alternatives.
- Cheers to the Top 11 Best Whiskey Shots You Need to Try Now: If you’re a fan of whiskey shots, then you’ll want to check out this list of the top 11 best whiskey shots.
- Blanton’s Bourbon Costco Price Guide: How to Get the Best Deal: Blanton’s Bourbon is a highly sought-after bourbon, and if you’re looking to get the best deal on it, then you’ll want to check out this guide.
- 10 Best Bourbons That Taste Like Basil Hayden: Our Top Picks: Basil Hayden is a popular bourbon, and if you’re looking for similar alternatives to try out, then you’ll want to check out this list of the 10 best bourbons that taste like Basil Hayden.
- Get Your PB Fix with These 15 Best Peanut Butter Whiskey Brands: If you’re looking for a unique and exciting flavor of whiskey to try out, then you might want to give peanut butter whiskey a try. Check out this list of the 15 best peanut butter whiskey brands.