Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage

Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage | Whiskey Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Kentucky, USA.
  • Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
  • Distillation & Maturation Process: Single barrel vintage, indicating each bottle comes from a specific barrel, providing unique characteristics. The reviewed bottle was barreled on December 20, 2013, and bottled on January 19, 2021, suggesting a maturation period of approximately 7 years.
  • Age Statement: No explicit age statement on the front label, but the bottling and barreling dates allow for age calculation.
  • Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on oak influence suggests a potentially rich amber color.
  • Bottle Design: Features a wax or plastic top designed to mimic wax, enhancing airtightness and overall presentation. The bottle includes handwritten details of the barrel and bottling date.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: Described as intensely oaky with a strong presence of vanilla and caramel, balanced with ripe apple notes reminiscent of dry, flowery apples.
  • Unique Characteristics: The whisky has a hefty, matured character, with a pleasant nose but a robust and oaky taste. The presence of baking spices and a potential hint of rye contribute to its complexity.
  • Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, it's noted for having more "oomph" than typical Kentucky straight bourbons, suggesting a unique position within its category.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Anecdotes: The reviewer shares a personal story of helping out in an apple harvest, drawing a parallel between the variety of apples tasted then and the apple notes in the whisky.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Historical Context: Evan Williams is highlighted as a significant brand in the United States, particularly noted for its affordability and popularity as the second best-selling whiskey in the country.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "It really feels like a Kentucky straight bourbon as well."
  • "That really feels like seven years."
  • "It's not the very, very best but its price value is really good with this bottle."

Summary

  • Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with a maturation period of approximately 7 years.
  • It features a rich flavor profile with a strong oak influence, balanced by vanilla, caramel, and unique ripe apple notes.
  • The whisky is described as having more intensity and complexity than typical bourbons in its category, with a good price-value ratio.
  • The review includes personal anecdotes and emphasizes the whisky's significance within the American market.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals with a deep appreciation for bourbon will enjoy the unique flavor profile and the single barrel character.
  • Value Seekers: Those looking for high-quality bourbon at an affordable price will find this bottle appealing.
  • Adventurous Drinkers: Consumers interested in exploring different flavor profiles within the bourbon category, especially those with a preference for oaky and spicy notes.