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.