Are you a bourbon lover who is looking for a reasonably priced bottle of bourbon? If so, you may have come across two popular bottles that have a lot in common: Ezra Brooks and Evan Williams. While these two bourbons share many similarities, they also have some notable differences that set them apart.

If you’re wondering which bourbon to choose, it’s worth taking a closer look at the differences between Ezra Brooks and Evan Williams. By comparing the two brands, you can get a better sense of which one is right for you and your taste preferences. Keep reading to learn more about the similarities and differences between these two popular bourbons.

History of Ezra Brooks vs Evan Williams

Ezra Brooks’ History

photo credit: ezrabrooks.com

Ezra Brooks was introduced to the market in 1957 by entrepreneur Frank Silverman. The brand was named after a Kentucky senator who had been known for his love of bourbon. Ezra Brooks is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is distilled and aged in the heart of Kentucky. The brand is known for its smooth and rich flavor, which is achieved through a unique blend of corn, rye, and barley.

The brand has a long history of producing high-quality bourbon, and it has won numerous awards over the years. In fact, Ezra Brooks has won more than 20 awards in international competitions, including the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

photo credit: evanwilliams.com

Evan Williams’ History

Evan Williams is one of the oldest bourbon brands in the United States. It was founded in 1783 by Evan Williams, who established his distillery in Kentucky. The brand claims to be the oldest in Kentucky, and it has a long history of producing high-quality bourbon.

Evan Williams is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is distilled and aged in the heart of Kentucky. The brand is known for its smooth and mellow flavor, which is achieved through a unique blend of corn, rye, and barley.

Over the years, Evan Williams has won numerous awards for its bourbon. In fact, the brand has won more than 50 awards in international competitions, including the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Production Process

Ezra Brooks’ Production Process

Ezra Brooks is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley. The mash bill contains at least 51% corn, which gives the whiskey its characteristic sweetness. The mash is cooked, fermented, and distilled in small batches using traditional methods.

After distillation, the whiskey is aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of four years. The charred oak barrels give the whiskey its distinct flavor and color. The whiskey is then blended and bottled at 90 proof.

Evan Williams’ Production Process

Evan Williams is also a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley. The mash bill contains at least 51% corn, which gives the whiskey its characteristic sweetness. The mash is cooked, fermented, and distilled in small batches using traditional methods.

After distillation, the whiskey is aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of four years. The charred oak barrels give the whiskey its distinct flavor and color. The whiskey is then blended and bottled at 86 proof.

Taste Comparison

When it comes to taste, both Ezra Brooks and Evan Williams are great options for bourbon lovers who want a flavorful experience without breaking the bank. However, there are some differences between the two that might make you prefer one over the other.

Ezra Brooks has a spicy flavor profile with a higher proof, making it a bolder choice. On the other hand, Evan Williams has a lighter flavor and lower proof bottling, making it a smoother option. Both bourbons have a sweet taste with hints of caramel and vanilla, but Ezra Brooks has a more prominent oak flavor.

If you prefer a spicier and bolder taste, Ezra Brooks might be a better option for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and lighter taste, Evan Williams might be the way to go. It’s all a matter of personal preference.

In terms of the finish, Ezra Brooks has a longer and more intense finish compared to Evan Williams. This is due to its higher proof and bolder flavor profile. Evan Williams, on the other hand, has a shorter and smoother finish.

Price Comparison

Ezra Brooks is priced at around $14 for a 750mL bottle, making it slightly cheaper than Evan Williams. It is bottled at 90-proof, which is the same as Evan Williams. Despite its low price, Ezra Brooks is a quality bourbon that offers a smooth taste with hints of caramel and vanilla. It is a great option for those who are new to bourbon or who want an affordable option for mixing in cocktails.

Evan Williams is priced at around $15 for a 750mL bottle, which is slightly more expensive than Ezra Brooks. It is also bottled at 90-proof, which is the same as Ezra Brooks. Evan Williams is a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts and is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of oak and vanilla. It is a great option for sipping neat or on the rocks.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for mixing in cocktails, Ezra Brooks is a great choice. If you’re willing to spend a little more for a richer, full-bodied flavor, Evan Williams is the way to go. Regardless of which one you choose, both bourbons offer excellent value for their price.

Conclusion

Both Ezra Brooks and Evan Williams bourbons offer great value for their price points. While there are some differences between the two, ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.

If you prefer a spicier, higher proof bourbon, then Ezra Brooks may be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smoother bourbon with a lower proof, then Evan Williams may be more your style.

It’s also worth noting that both brands have a long history and are owned by reputable companies. Ezra Brooks is owned by Luxco, while Evan Williams is owned by Heaven Hill Brands.

Whether you choose Ezra Brooks or Evan Williams, you can’t go wrong with either option. Both offer great value for their price and are sure to satisfy your bourbon cravings.

Related Posts

If you’re interested in comparing bourbons, you might want to check out some of the following related posts:

• Basil Hayden Bourbon Whiskey vs. Woodford Reserve: The Smooth Showdown: If you’re looking for a smooth, easy-drinking bourbon, you might want to compare Basil Hayden’s and Woodford Reserve. This post breaks down the flavor profiles and histories of each brand.
• Battle of the Bourbons: Buffalo Trace vs Eagle Rare: Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare are both popular bourbons produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. This post compares the two and helps you decide which one is right for you.
• Maker’s Mark vs Bulleit Bourbon: Which One Should You Choose?: Maker’s Mark and Bulleit are two well-known Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys. This post compares the flavor profiles and histories of each brand to help you choose between them.
• Jack Daniel’s vs Jim Beam: Which Whiskey Reigns Supreme?: Jack Daniel’s and Jim Beam are two iconic American whiskey brands with a rich history and loyal following. This post compares the two and helps you decide which one you prefer.
• Buffalo Trace vs Woodford Reserve: Which Bourbon Reigns Supreme?: Buffalo Trace and Woodford Reserve are both highly regarded in the world of bourbon. This post compares the two and helps you decide which one you like better.