As much of the exposure bourbon, and whiskey in general, has been garnering these days, I still come across many people who will make comments like, “you at least have to spend $25 for good bourbon.” While it is true that the quality of exceptional bourbon begins to climb around this range, there are so many great bourbons out there for under $20. Evan Williams Black label, aged 5-7 years with a price tag of around $11-$12, blows the competition out of the water.
About
a year ago I reviewed the Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage and this time
around, Black Label, as a bargain brand, still upholds Heaven Hill’s dedication
for producing high quality products. The black label is produced using the same
mash bill as that in Elijah Craig and the Single Barrel Vintage. That being
said, Malt Advocate has given the Black Label the “Best Buy Whiskey of the Year”
twice: in 2003 and 2011.
Evan Williams Kentucky Straight
Bourbon Black Label Review:
Price: Around $11-12 for a 750ml bottle.
Packaging/Labeling: Typical bourbon label for this price. I do wonder what they mean by “extra aging,” but one cannot be too picky at this point.
Price: Around $11-12 for a 750ml bottle.
Packaging/Labeling: Typical bourbon label for this price. I do wonder what they mean by “extra aging,” but one cannot be too picky at this point.
Alcoholic Content: 43% abv, 86 proof. Nice for such a low shelf product.
Nose: Inviting nose of cherry cola, spice, caramel, corn nuts,
and oak.
Palate: Vanilla and cherry cola with a good amount of spice. All
this is balanced out by the assertive oak palate. The mouthfeel is heavier on
the front and tends to dissipate quite quickly, leaving a brief finish (This in
turn makes me want to simply keep drinking). I am reminded of a younger cousin
of Jim Beam Black.
