Evan Williams, a well-known and respected brand in the bourbon industry, offers a range of products that cater to different palates and preferences. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the various expressions that Evan Williams has to offer. Let's delve into the different brands produced by Evan Williams.
1. Evan Williams Black Label: This is the flagship expression of the Evan Williams brand. It is a straight bourbon whiskey that is aged for a minimum of four years. It boasts a smooth and rich flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The Black Label is a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. I personally find it to be a great choice for a classic Old Fashioned.
2. Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond: This expression is a step up from the Black Label, offering a higher proof and more robust flavor profile. Bottled-in-Bond bourbons are required by law to be aged for at least four years, produced by a single distillery in a single season, and bottled at 100 proof. The Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond is a well-balanced bourbon with deep flavors of caramel, dark chocolate, and a hint of spice. It makes for a fantastic sipping bourbon or a bold addition to a whiskey cocktail.
3. Evan Williams Single Barrel: As the name suggests, this expression is made from a carefully selected single barrel. Each barrel imparts its own unique characteristics to the whiskey, resulting in a truly special drinking experience. The Evan Williams Single Barrel is aged for around 10 years, allowing it to develop complex flavors of toasted oak, dried fruit, and a touch of leather. This bourbon is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to unlock its full potential.
4. Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch: This small batch bourbon is made from a blend of barrels, carefully selected to create a consistent flavor profile. It is aged for a minimum of eight years, resulting in a smooth and well-rounded bourbon. The Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted nuts, making it a crowd-pleasing option for both bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers to the spirit.
5. Evan Williams Honey: For those who enjoy flavored whiskies, Evan Williams also offers a honey-infused bourbon. This expression combines the smoothness of Evan Williams with the sweetness of real honey, creating a delightful and approachable spirit. The Evan Williams Honey is perfect for those who prefer sweeter cocktails or for enjoying on its own over ice.
In addition to these core expressions, Evan Williams has also released limited edition bottlings and special collaborations over the years. These limited releases offer whiskey enthusiasts the opportunity to explore unique flavor profiles and rare expressions from the brand.
Evan Williams prides itself on producing high-quality bourbons that cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether you prefer a classic and smooth bourbon or a more robust and complex sip, there is likely an Evan Williams expression that will suit your palate.