Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:45 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Early Times vs Evan Williams 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
Early Times vs Evan Williams: Comparison
Early Times: A welcoming blend of apricot, caramel, and vanilla on the nose, leading to a palate accented by apricot, caramel, nuts, and spice. Finishes quickly with a fruity and oaky spice touch. 80 proof.
Evan Williams: Offers a sweet bouquet of caramel, vanilla, and honey, with a palate that melds honey, spice, leather, and oak char. The finish is warming, with persistent spice and leather notes. 90 proof.
The Verdict: “Early Times and Evan Williams serve distinct purposes for whiskey enthusiasts. Early Times stands out for its smoothness and affordability, perfect for those seeking a versatile mixer or an easy sipping experience on the rocks. Evan Williams, with its high proof and rich flavor profile, offers a comforting sip that balances sweetness with a hint of spice and oak, making it a solid choice for everyday enjoyment or as a base in cocktails.”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Whiskeys under $20
Early Times: Smooth Sipper or Mixer Mastermind?
- Nose: Apricot, vanilla, caramel
- Palate: Apricot, caramel, nuts, spice
- Finish: Short, fruity, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Old Forester
Early Times opens with a sweet and smooth aroma, hinting at apricot, caramel, and vanilla.
On the palate, it offers a lightly oily texture, leading with sweet alcohol notes before transitioning to flavors of apricot, caramel, roasted nuts, and a touch of spice.
The finish is quick, leaving a light fruitiness, oak spice, and a subtle nail polish whisper for some.
So, is it good?
Early Times might not win awards for complexity, but it delivers reliable smoothness and affordability. While its young age shines through, it avoids harshness or bitterness, making it a solid option for mixing.
Your Perfect Pour:
- Mixed: Its smooth profile makes it a versatile base for cocktails.
- On the rocks: Chill it out for a relaxed sipping experience.
Early Times in a Nutshell:
- Age: Minimum 3 years
- Taste: Smooth, sweet with apricot, caramel, nuts, and spice notes. Short finish.
- Best for: Mixing, budget-conscious whiskey drinkers
Remember: Taste is subjective! If you’re looking for a smooth, affordable whiskey for mixing, Early Times might be your pick. But if you crave bold, aged characters, you might explore other options.
Evan Williams: Sweet Sipper or Humble Hero?
- 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: Rebel Yell
Evan Williams charms with a sweet nose, redolent of honey, caramel, and vanilla, with a whisper of alcohol for some.
On the palate, it boasts a pleasant body with a touch of texture, starting sweet with hints of aged leather and mild oak bitterness.
The finish warms with lingering spice and echoes of leather, offering a comforting experience.
Adding water amplifies the caramel sweetness and smooths the edges, making it even more approachable.
So, is it good?
Evan Williams shines as a reliable, affordable bourbon. While it may not compete with the complexity of pricier options, it delivers consistent quality and value.
Your Perfect Pour:
- Neat: Enjoy the classic bourbon notes.
- On the rocks: Chill it out for a lighter experience.
- Mixed: Its versatility makes it a great base for cocktails.
Evan Williams in a Nutshell:
- Age: 4 years
- Taste: Sweet caramel, honey, vanilla, with hints of leather and oak. Smooth body.
- Best for: Everyday enjoyment, mixing, those seeking an affordable bourbon
Remember: Taste is subjective! If you prioritize affordability and enjoy sweeter bourbons, Evan Williams might be your go-to. But if you seek intricate, aged expressions, you might explore other options.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price | Bottle Size |
| Early Times | $14 | 1L |
| Evan Williams | $18 | 1L |