Evan Williams Bourbon has carved a name for itself as one of the most beloved and accessible whiskeys in the world. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or a casual drinker exploring American spirits, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey offers a rich history, smooth flavor, and unbeatable value. In this detailed guide, we’ll dive into what makes Evan Williams special, its production process, tasting notes, pricing (including a specific look at India), and how it fits into your drinking experience. Let’s explore this timeless bourbon that’s been winning hearts since the 18th century.
What Is Evan Williams Bourbon?
Evan Williams Bourbon is a classic Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Named after Evan Williams, who is credited with opening Kentucky’s first commercial distillery in 1783 along the Ohio River, this bourbon embodies the spirit of American whiskey-making tradition. Today, it ranks as the second-largest-selling bourbon in the U.S., trailing only Jim Beam, and has a global following thanks to its quality and affordability.
The bourbon is crafted from a mash bill of 78% corn, 12% rye, and 10% malted barley, aged in new charred oak barrels for at least four years. This process gives it a signature smoothness with a balance of sweet and spicy notes, making it versatile for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
Why Is Evan Williams Bourbon So Popular?
- Affordability: It delivers premium quality at a budget-friendly price.
- Versatility: Perfect for cocktails or solo sipping.
- Heritage: Rooted in over two centuries of Kentucky distilling tradition.
- Consistency: Reliable taste across its core expressions.
The History Behind Evan Williams Bourbon
The story of Evan Williams Bourbon begins with its namesake, a Welsh immigrant who arrived in Kentucky in the late 18th century. Historical records suggest Evan Williams established his distillery in 1783, though some debate surrounds his claim as Kentucky’s “first distiller.” Regardless, his legacy lives on through the brand, now managed by Heaven Hill, a family-owned distillery founded in 1935.
Heaven Hill has kept the traditional methods alive, using the same time-honored recipe and aging process that Evan Williams pioneered. The distillery’s commitment to quality has earned Evan Williams a loyal fan base and numerous accolades, cementing its status as a staple in the bourbon world.
Fun Fact: Did You Know?
Evan Williams Black Label once carried a 7-year age statement, but this was dropped in the 2000s. Despite the change, the bourbon retains its smooth character, thanks to Heaven Hill’s extra aging efforts.
How Is Evan Williams Bourbon Made?
The production of Evan Williams Bourbon follows the strict guidelines of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Mash Bill: A blend of 78% corn, 12% rye, and 10% malted barley creates a balanced flavor profile—sweet from the corn, spicy from the rye, and malty from the barley.
- Fermentation: The mash is fermented with yeast, converting sugars into alcohol.
- Distillation: Distilled in copper stills to refine the spirit’s purity and flavor.
- Aging: Aged for at least four years in new, charred oak barrels, which impart vanilla, caramel, and oak notes.
- Bottling: Bottled at various proofs, with the flagship Black Label at 86 proof (43% ABV).
This meticulous process ensures every bottle delivers the rich, full-bodied taste bourbon lovers crave.
Tasting Notes: What Does Evan Williams Bourbon Taste Like?
Evan Williams Bourbon offers a approachable yet flavorful experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Aroma: Warm vanilla, caramel, and a hint of oak, with subtle fruity undertones like apple or banana.
- Palate: Sweet corn and caramel dominate, followed by a gentle spice from the rye and a touch of charred oak.
- Finish: Smooth and lingering, with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a slight sweetness.
Pro Tip for Tasting
Pour a small amount into a Glencairn glass, let it breathe for a minute, and take a slow sip to fully appreciate the layered flavors. Add a drop of water to open up the aroma even more.
Evan Williams Bourbon Variants: Which One Should You Try?
Evan Williams offers a range of expressions to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are the most popular:
1. Evan Williams Black Label
- Proof: 86 (43% ABV)
- Price (U.S.): $15–$20 for 750ml
- Profile: The flagship offering—smooth, affordable, and great for cocktails like an Old Fashioned.
2. Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond (White Label)
- Proof: 100 (50% ABV)
- Price (U.S.): $18–$25 for 750ml
- Profile: Bolder and richer, meeting Bottled-in-Bond standards (single distillery, aged at least 4 years, 100 proof).
3. Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch
- Proof: 90 (45% ABV)
- Price (U.S.): $20–$30 for 750ml
- Profile: A step up with a refined oak and honey finish, named after the year Evan Williams began distilling.
4. Evan Williams Single Barrel
- Proof: Varies (typically 86.6, or 43.3% ABV)
- Price (U.S.): $30–$40 for 750ml
- Profile: Premium and complex, with each barrel hand-selected for unique flavors.
5. Evan Williams Honey
- Proof: 70 (35% ABV)
- Price (U.S.): $15–$20 for 750ml
- Profile: A sweet, honey-infused bourbon liqueur, perfect for casual sipping.
Evan Williams Bourbon Price in India: A Detailed Table
For bourbon fans in India, Evan Williams is available through select retailers and online platforms, though prices vary due to import duties, taxes, and shipping costs. Below is an approximate price table for Evan Williams Bourbon in major Indian cities as of April 2025. Note that these are estimates and subject to change based on local regulations and availability.
| Variant | Size | Mumbai (INR) | Delhi (INR) | Bangalore (INR) | Hyderabad (INR) | Jaipur (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evan Williams Black Label | 750ml | 3,500–4,000 | 3,800–4,200 | 3,600–4,100 | 3,700–4,200 | 3,500–4,000 |
| Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond | 750ml | 4,000–4,500 | 4,200–4,800 | 4,100–4,600 | 4,200–4,700 | 4,000–4,500 |
| Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch | 750ml | 4,500–5,000 | 4,800–5,200 | 4,600–5,100 | 4,700–5,200 | 4,500–5,000 |
| Evan Williams Single Barrel | 750ml | 5,500–6,000 | 5,800–6,300 | 5,600–6,200 | 5,700–6,300 | 5,500–6,000 |
| Evan Williams Honey | 750ml | 3,800–4,200 | 4,000–4,500 | 3,900–4,300 | 4,000–4,400 | 3,800–4,200 |
Why Prices Vary in India
- Import Taxes: Alcohol imports face high customs duties in India.
- State Regulations: Each state has its own excise policies, affecting retail prices.
- Availability: Limited stock in some regions can drive up costs.
For the most accurate pricing, check with local liquor stores or online platforms like Ubuy India or Livcheers.
How Does Evan Williams Compare to Other Bourbons?
Evan Williams often gets compared to brands like Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, and Buffalo Trace. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Vs. Jim Beam White Label: Evan Williams Black Label (43% ABV) is slightly stronger and smoother than Jim Beam (40% ABV), offering better value at a similar price.
- Vs. Wild Turkey 101: Wild Turkey packs more punch at 101 proof, but Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond holds its own with a cleaner finish.
- Vs. Buffalo Trace: Buffalo Trace is a step up in complexity, but Evan Williams 1783 offers comparable quality at a lower cost.
Real-World Example
A bartender in Mumbai told me, “Evan Williams Black is my go-to for a budget bourbon cocktail. It mixes well without breaking the bank, and customers love the smooth kick.”
How to Enjoy Evan Williams Bourbon: Practical Tips
Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned sipper, here’s how to make the most of Evan Williams:
- Neat: Sip the Black Label or 1783 Small Batch slowly to savor the flavors.
- On the Rocks: Add ice to mellow the spice and enhance the sweetness.
- Cocktails: Try a Whiskey Sour with Bottled-in-Bond or a Bourbon Peach Smash with Evan Williams Honey.
- Pairing: Pair with dark chocolate or grilled meats for a delightful contrast.
Quick Cocktail Recipe: Evan Williams Old Fashioned
- 2 oz Evan Williams Black Label
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel garnish
- Muddle sugar and bitters, add bourbon, stir with ice, and garnish. Enjoy!
Is Evan Williams Bourbon Worth It?
Absolutely. Evan Williams strikes a rare balance between quality and affordability. Data from the Distilled Spirits Council shows bourbon sales grew by 8.2% in 2023, with budget-friendly options like Evan Williams driving much of that growth. Its consistent taste and versatility make it a standout choice for any whiskey lover.
See Also: whiskypriceindia.com
Conclusion
Evan Williams Bourbon is more than just a drink—it’s a piece of Kentucky heritage that delivers exceptional value. From its smooth, approachable taste to its rich history and variety of expressions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in India paying a premium for a bottle or grabbing it off a U.S. shelf, this bourbon won’t disappoint.
Ready to experience it yourself? Check your local retailer or online store for the latest availability and pricing. Pour a glass, kick back, and discover why Evan Williams has been a favorite for over 200 years. What’s your favorite way to enjoy it? Let me know in the comments!