When it comes to bourbon, the conversation often veers towards the top-shelf selections—the aged, the rare, the expensive. But for many, the best bourbon isn't the one that breaks the bank; it's the one that reliably delivers good taste without emptying your wallet. Among the crowd of affordable options, one bourbon stands out: Evan Williams.
Image credit: ReserveBar
Buy Evan Williams now!
A Bartender's Secret
Spend enough time around bars, and you'll notice a common thread among bartenders when it comes to their preferred well whiskey. The well, where the go-to, easy-to-reach bottles reside, is a bartender's best friend for making quick, satisfying drinks. It's here that the best cheap whiskey truly shines.
Dave Fernie, a seasoned bartender and general manager at Bar Clacson (now Chatterbox) in downtown Los Angeles, knows a thing or two about selecting a well whiskey. With a history of running taste tests for bar owners, Fernie consistently found that Evan Williams came out on top. It's not just about the price; it's about the quality that comes with it.
Image credit: ReserveBar
Affordable and Reliable
Evan Williams has a lot going for it. Priced around $20 , it’s cheaper than many of its competitors like Jack Daniel's and Jim Beam. Despite its affordability, it boasts an 86 proof, giving it a higher-than-average alcohol content without the harsh burn typical of bottom-shelf spirits. This bourbon delivers a smooth experience with notes of vanilla and oak, and a finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
The Perfect Pairing
While Evan Williams may not be your first choice for crafting intricate bourbon cocktails, it excels in simpler pairings. Mixed with Coke, it creates a classic, no-fuss drink. Even better, pair it with a cold can of beer—something like Coors Banquet or Pabst Blue Ribbon—for an ideal, unpretentious combo. For those looking to enjoy a good bourbon without the steep price tag, Evan Williams is the perfect choice.
A Bourbon for the Real World
As someone who has spent years in smoky bars and loud venues, often on a budget, I’ve come to appreciate the value of a good, affordable bourbon. My career as a spirits writer and former music journalist afforded me many free drinks, but it also honed my appreciation for those that delivered quality without pretense. Evan Williams was often the reliable pour that kept the night going smoothly, no matter how ear-splitting the music or how hectic the crowd.
Buy Evan Williams now!
In the world of bourbon, where the high-end options often steal the spotlight, Evan Williams remains a steadfast hero for those who value taste and affordability. Next time you're at the bar and need a solid, dependable drink, remember that this bottom shelf bourbon has your back.
Shop All Evan Williams Whisky
About Evan Williams
Evan Williams Whiskey is one of the most storied and respected brands in the world of bourbon. Named after Evan Williams, who is often credited as Kentucky's first commercial distiller, the brand pays homage to his legacy with a range of high-quality bourbons. Evan Williams began distilling in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1783, using the pure limestone spring water of the region, which remains a crucial ingredient in the production process today.
Evan Williams is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, which is the largest independent, family-owned producer of distilled spirits in the United States. Heaven Hill has been crafting Evan Williams bourbon since 1936, following the end of Prohibition. The distillery, located in Bardstown, Kentucky, adheres to traditional methods to produce a range of bourbons that are both accessible and rich in character.
The flagship product, Evan Williams Black Label, is known for its smoothness and affordability, making it a popular choice among bourbon drinkers. It is a classic Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey with a mash bill consisting of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye. This combination results in a well-balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, complemented by hints of spice and honey.
In addition to the Black Label, Evan Williams offers several other expressions:
- Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond : This 100-proof bourbon adheres to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which requires the whiskey to be produced in a single distillation season, by one distiller at one distillery, and aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse. It offers robust flavors with a strong oak presence and rich caramel notes.
- Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage: As one of the first single-barrel bourbons introduced to the market, this expression is highly regarded for its depth and complexity. Each bottle is hand-selected and labeled with the vintage date, providing a unique drinking experience with each barrel. It features flavors of toffee, dark fruit, and a long, smooth finish.
- Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch : Named in honor of the year Evan Williams founded his distillery, this small batch bourbon is crafted from fewer selected barrels, offering a richer and more nuanced profile. It has a higher rye content, which adds spice and complexity to the sweet, caramel and vanilla notes.
Evan Williams is also known for its innovative flavored bourbons, such as Evan Williams Honey and Evan Williams Fire, which cater to a broader audience and offer versatility in cocktails.
Overall, Evan Williams Whiskey embodies the tradition and craftsmanship of Kentucky bourbon. With a range of expressions that cater to different tastes and occasions, it remains a beloved and enduring brand in the world of whiskey. Whether for casual sipping, mixing in cocktails, or special occasions, Evan Williams offers a reliable and enjoyable bourbon experience.
Local News
Comments / 0