You’ve probably heard of Jim Beam and Evan Williams. These two brands are well-known for their affordable yet delicious bourbon whiskeys. But which one is better? In this article, we’ll compare Jim Beam and Evan Williams to help you decide which one to try next.
Jim Beam and Evan Williams are both made in Kentucky, the birthplace of bourbon whiskey. Jim Beam is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and barley, while Evan Williams uses a higher percentage of corn in its mash bill. Both brands use charred oak barrels for aging, which gives their whiskeys a unique flavor profile. While Jim Beam is aged for around four years, Evan Williams is aged for five to seven years, depending on the particular selection. These differences in ingredients and aging processes can affect the taste and aroma of the final product.
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History of Jim Beam Bourbon and Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskeys
Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey’s History
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Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey is a popular brand of bourbon whiskey that has been around for over 200 years. The brand was founded in 1795 by Jacob Beam, who started distilling the whiskey in Kentucky. The brand was later passed down from generation to generation, and is now owned by Beam Suntory.
The brand has had its share of ups and downs over the years, including a fire that destroyed one of its aging warehouses in 2003. Despite these setbacks, Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey has remained a popular choice among whiskey lovers around the world.
Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey is known for its smooth taste and rich flavor. It is aged for four years in white oak barrels, which gives it its distinctive taste. The whiskey has a lower alcohol content of 40%, which makes it more approachable than some other bourbons.
Evan William Bourbon Whiskey’s History
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Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey is another popular brand of bourbon whiskey that has been around for over 200 years. The brand was founded by Welsh immigrant Evan Williams in 1783, who started distilling the whiskey in Kentucky. The brand was later sold to Heaven Hill Brands.
Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey is known for its bold flavor and higher alcohol content of 43%. It is aged for 5-7 years in charred oak barrels, which gives it its distinctive flavor. The whiskey is also known for its affordability, making it a popular choice among whiskey enthusiasts.
Over the years, Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey has won many awards and accolades, including being named “Whiskey of the Year” by Whiskey Advocate in 2004.
In conclusion, both Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey and Evan Williams Bourbon Whiskey have a rich history and distinct flavors that make them popular choices among whiskey lovers. Whether you prefer the smooth taste of Jim Beam or the bold flavor of Evan Williams, both brands have something to offer.
Production Process
When it comes to Jim Beam and Evan Williams bourbon whiskeys, the production process is an important factor that affects the taste and quality of the final product. Here’s a breakdown of how each brand produces their bourbon whiskey.
Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey’s Production Process
Jim Beam uses a traditional sour mash process to produce their bourbon whiskey. This means that a portion of the mash from the previous batch is used to start the fermentation process for the next batch. This helps to ensure consistency in flavor and quality from batch to batch.
The mash bill for Jim Beam bourbon whiskey consists of 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. The grains are ground and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then cooked to release the sugars. Yeast is added to the cooled mash, and the mixture is left to ferment for several days.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled twice in copper stills to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then aged in charred oak barrels for at least four years, during which time it takes on the amber color and complex flavors that are characteristic of bourbon whiskey.
Evan William Bourbon Whiskey’s Production Process
Evan Williams also uses a sour mash process to produce their bourbon whiskey, but they have a slightly different approach. Rather than using a portion of the mash from the previous batch, they use a “setback” – a small amount of mash that has been allowed to sour naturally – to start the fermentation process for the next batch.
The mash bill for Evan Williams bourbon whiskey consists of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. Like Jim Beam, the grains are ground and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then cooked and cooled. Yeast is added, and the mixture is left to ferment for several days.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled twice in copper stills to create a clear, high-proof spirit. The spirit is then aged in charred oak barrels for at least five to seven years, depending on the particular selection. This longer aging period allows the whiskey to develop a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Overall, both Jim Beam and Evan Williams use modern production methods to produce their bourbon whiskey. However, their use of different mash bills and aging periods results in unique flavor profiles that set them apart from each other.
Taste Comparison
When it comes to taste, both Jim Beam and Evan Williams have their own unique characteristics.
Jim Beam has a lighter taste, with a hint of sweetness and a subtle smoky finish. It is a smooth and easy-to-drink bourbon that is perfect for mixing in cocktails. However, some people find it to be slightly watery and lacking in complexity.
On the other hand, Evan Williams has a darker and richer taste, with notes of vanilla and caramel. It has a more complex flavor profile that is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. However, some people find it to be too sweet and overpowering.
In terms of alcohol content, Evan Williams has a slightly higher ABV (43%) compared to Jim Beam (40%). This means that Evan Williams has a stronger alcohol taste and a more intense burn, which some people prefer.
When it comes to aging, Jim Beam is aged for four years in new white oak barrels, while Evan Williams is aged for 5-7 years depending on the particular selection. This longer aging process gives Evan Williams a more mature and refined taste.
To summarize, Jim Beam is a lighter and smoother bourbon that is perfect for mixing in cocktails, while Evan Williams is a darker and richer bourbon that is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the occasion.
Price Comparison
When it comes to choosing between Jim Beam and Evan Williams, price is often a deciding factor. Both whiskeys are affordable, but there are some differences in price that you should consider.
Jim Beam is generally slightly cheaper than Evan Williams, with a price range of around $15 to $25, depending on the specific bottle. Evan Williams, on the other hand, usually costs between $20 and $30. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your location and the store you’re purchasing from.
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option, Jim Beam is the way to go. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a slightly higher quality whiskey, Evan Williams may be worth the extra cost.
It’s also worth noting that both whiskeys come in 1-liter bottles, which is larger than the standard 750ml bottle. This means that you’re getting more whiskey for your money, regardless of which brand you choose.
In summary, when it comes to price, Jim Beam is generally the more affordable option, while Evan Williams is slightly more expensive but may offer a higher quality whiskey. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your budget and personal preferences.
Conclusion
In the end, choosing between Jim Beam and Evan Williams boils down to personal preference. Both bourbons have their unique characteristics that make them stand out from one another. Here are a few key takeaways to help you make your decision:
- Jim Beam is a more established brand with a longer history, while Evan Williams is a newer brand that has gained popularity in recent years.
- Jim Beam is aged for four years, while Evan Williams is aged for five to seven years, giving the latter a more complex flavor profile.
- Jim Beam has a lower alcohol content at 40% ABV, while Evan Williams has a slightly higher alcohol content at 43% ABV.
- Jim Beam is generally considered a more premium bourbon, with a higher price point, while Evan Williams is more affordable.
Ultimately, the choice between Jim Beam and Evan Williams comes down to your personal taste preferences and budget. If you prefer a smoother, more complex bourbon with a higher alcohol content, Evan Williams may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more established brand with a longer history and are willing to pay a higher price point, Jim Beam may be the way to go.
No matter which bourbon you choose, both Jim Beam and Evan Williams are excellent choices for anyone looking for a quality bourbon without breaking the bank. So go ahead, pour yourself a glass, and enjoy the rich, complex flavors that these bourbons have to offer. Cheers!
