Evan Williams Black Label Review

About – “Named after Evan Williams, who opened Kentucky’s First Distillery along the banks of the Ohio River in 1783, it’s aged far longer than required by law. The result is a Bourbon that’s smooth, rich, and easy to enjoy.” Evan Williams Black Label is one of the most recognized bourbon labels out there, and has been one of the highest selling bourbons in the U.S. for a long time. Produced by Heaven Hill Evan Williams Black is 86 proof and will set your wallet back around $13.

Nose – Classic bourbon notes, caramel leads the way with a dense vanilla following behind that. As it opens up sweet corn starts to come on and behind it all is a nice layer of oak.

Palate – Much like the nose this is classic bourbon through and through. The sweet corn and caramel from the nose combine with that dense vanilla that is closer to an artificial vanilla flavoring. There is a touch of spice that leads into a medium finish that transitions from barrel spice into nuts and more sweet corn. There is the slightest touch of youth at the end which would have to be expected with something in this price point.

Score – C+

Verdict – A lot of those people who mixed this with Coke in college are now coming back to Evan Williams Black Label and finding that it does have an enjoyable experience to offer on its own. It has all of those classic flavors that an entry level bourbon should have. There are some minor flaws, but overall it offers a good bourbon experience at a very low price. It is one of my go to bourbons for tailgating or hanging around with friends, and I always keep a bottle on hand for people who want to drink bourbon and Coke.