Veteran Bourbon Review: Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond

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History – Evan Williams was a Welsh immigrant to North America, was born in Dale, Pembroke shire, and emigrated to the United States towards the end of the 18th century, He settled in Kentucky and began distilling. Evan was a natural-born leader, innovator, and entrepreneur. In 1783, He founded Kentucky’s first commercial distillery on the banks of the Ohio river. Currently distilled and Bottled by Old Evan Williams Distillery Louisville, KY.

Value – Normally priced at $25.99 for the 1.75L bottle. Which is a steal for this bottle. In my opinion, you will not find this sized bottle for a better price with better quality bourbon.

Appearance – This Bottled-In-Bond, AKA the White label I believe has a medium amber color to it with a screw-on cap. It is a very basic non-exciting bottle but this 1.75L bottle is no slouch, it is on the heavy side when full but for the right price that’s just fine.

Nose – Personally I don’t find it to have a very strong smell that you think you would find in a 100 Proof bourbon. With that being said you can get a whiff of that good sweet caramel, maybe even a hint of cinnamon and/or cedar, which could just be me who knows. There are not a lot of distinguishing smells other than the sweeter smells.

Palate – This doesn’t smell nor feel like a 100 Proof bourbon that one would be used to. It lacks that harsh spicy burn that I actually like in higher proofs. I won’t completely condemn it on the heat, it does have small amounts when it hits your tongue and while going down the throat, it also carries all the way to your stomach with a slight burn. I do taste some sweeter things like caramel, and a low amount of vanilla.

Finish – Wondering what to expect for the finish on this bottle? Well, let’s find out. After a few seconds after hitting the palate the caramel sweeps away the first initial burn that you get leaving, I find a decent aftertaste. It’s not the best finish however what can you expect from a 1.75L $25 bottle of bourbon.

Summary – In summary, this Evan Williams Bottled-In-Bond will not be the best bottle you ever buy or try however it very well could be the best for the money that you will find in my opinion. It does not possess that overwhelming burn or taste while having just the right amount to keep you coming back for more. This is a bourbon I would recommend someone to try.

“I honestly think this has the potential to be really good. For the price you really can’t beat it, it’s great for weekly sipping. Not too hot, and not too relaxed either though. Definitely a good buy.”
–Eric Watkins

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 5

Value- 1-20 – 17

Appearance- 1-10 – 5

Nose- 1-20 – 13

Palate- 1-20 – 10

Finish- 1-20 – 10