Evan Williams White Label Bourbon is aged for a minimum of 4 years. This aging process takes place in a bonded warehouse, which is a regulated facility where the bourbon is stored under specific conditions. The purpose of aging bourbon is to allow it to develop and mature, gaining complexity and depth of flavor over time.
The aging process is crucial in bourbon production as it allows the whiskey to interact with the oak barrels, absorbing the flavors and characteristics of the wood. As the bourbon ages, it undergoes a process called oxidation, where it reacts with the air and undergoes chemical changes that contribute to its overall flavor profile.
The minimum age requirement for bottled-in-bond bourbons, such as Evan Williams White Label, is set by law. To qualify as bottled-in-bond, the bourbon must be aged for at least four years. This requirement ensures that the bourbon has had enough time to develop and mature, resulting in a higher quality product.
The choice to age Evan Williams White Label for at least four years is likely a deliberate one by the distillery. The longer aging period allows the bourbon to develop a more complex flavor profile, with deeper notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It also allows time for the alcohol to mellow and integrate with the other flavors in the bourbon.
Bottled-in-bond bourbons have a reputation for being high-quality and consistent, as they must adhere to strict regulations set forth by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This act was passed to ensure the authenticity and quality of American whiskeys, and it remains a respected standard in the industry.
Evan Williams White Label Bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in a bonded warehouse. This aging process allows the bourbon to develop and mature, resulting in a more complex and flavorful product. The choice to age the bourbon for this length of time is likely a deliberate one, as it ensures that the bourbon meets the requirements for being labeled as bottled-in-bond.