Evan Williams vs Old Crow

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 07:50 pm

Discover the differences between Evan Williams vs Old Crow in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Evan Williams vs Old Crow: Comparison

Evan Williams: A sweet and approachable bourbon with caramel, vanilla, and honey on the nose, leading to a palate of honey, spice, and aged leather. The finish is warm with oak char and spice, making it a great value for everyday enjoyment, either neat or in cocktails.

Old Crow: A classic bourbon with a nose of vanilla, oak, and caramel, and a spicy palate of oak, vanilla, pepper, and clove. Its bold flavor is balanced by a peppery and vanilla finish, ideal for cocktails or those who appreciate a spicier bourbon profile.

Verdict: Evan Williams offers a smooth, sweet sip that’s easy on the wallet, making it a versatile choice for both neat drinking and mixing. Old Crow, with its rich history and bolder spice notes, stands out in cocktails, offering robust flavors that can enhance any drink, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best-Value Bourbons

Evan Williams: Sweet Sips and Satisfying Value

• Nose: Caramel, vanilla, honey, ethanol
• Palate: Honey, spice, old leather, oak char
• Finish: Old leather, oak char, spice
• Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Wild Turkey 101

Sweet on the Nose, Smooth on the Palate: Evan Williams opens with a warm invitation of honey, caramel, and vanilla, with a touch of warmth suggesting its ethanol presence.

Decent Body, Subtle Charm: Take a sip and discover a satisfying texture with balanced sweetness. A hint of aged leather adds character, followed by a kiss of oak char bitterness that’s never overwhelming.

Spice Up the Finish: As you savor the finish, expect a lingering warmth and a touch of old leather spice. Want a smoother ride? Add a splash of water to unlock more caramel sweetness and a mellow ending.

Good Value, Everyday Enjoyment: While not an award-winner, Evan Williams delivers a solid bourbon experience at a wallet-friendly price. It may not boast the complexity of its high-end counterparts, but its smooth drinkability makes it a great everyday pour.

Perfect for Mixing or Neat: Enjoy Evan Williams neat for its classic charm, or use it to craft tasty cocktails without breaking the bank. Its warm profile adds depth and character to your favorite mixed drinks.

Evan Williams Facts:

• Mash bill: 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye
• Aged: 4 years
• Crafted at Heaven Hill Distillery

Remember: Taste is subjective! While some might find Evan Williams basic, others appreciate its reliable character and affordability. So, give it a try and see where you fall on the spectrum!

Old Crow: A Classic Bourbon with a Twist (But Maybe Not for Everyone)

• Nose: Vanilla, oak, caramel, apple juice
• Palate: Oak, vanilla, pepper, clove
• Finish: Pepper, oak spice, vanilla
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Benchmark

History in Every Sip: Ever wondered what Ulysses S. Grant’s go-to bourbon was? Look no further than Old Crow, a bourbon steeped in American history. Crafted at the iconic Jim Beam distillery, it shares the same mash bill as its more renowned cousin, Jim Beam. But with one key difference: age.

Aged to Taste: Aged for 3 years, Old Crow offers a unique take on the classic bourbon profile. Think hints of apple, vanilla, and caramel on the nose, followed by a warm, spicy sip with notes of oak, pepper, and clove. While some find the oak and spice a bit bold, it adds a certain character that bourbon enthusiasts appreciate.

Beyond the Neat Sip: While some enjoy Old Crow neat, its bold personality shines in cocktails. Its robust flavors can stand up to mixers, making it a great choice for Manhattans, Old Fashioneds, or even a twist on a whiskey sour.

A Conversation Starter: Love it or hate it, Old Crow is sure to spark conversation. Its strong personality and unique history make it a talking point among bourbon aficionados and casual drinkers alike. So, if you’re looking for a bourbon with a story and a kick, give Old Crow a try. Just be prepared for a flavor that’s anything but ordinary.

Key Points:

• Aged 3 years, compared to Jim Beam’s 4 years
• Bold oak and spice notes, balanced by hints of vanilla and caramel
• Perfect for cocktails or for those who enjoy a spicier bourbon
• Steeped in American history, favored by Ulysses S. Grant

Remember: Taste is subjective! What one person finds harsh, another might find exciting. So, don’t be afraid to try Old Crow for yourself and see where you fall on the spectrum.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price	Bottle Size
Evan Williams	$18	1L
Old Crow	$13	1L