Evan Williams 1783 vs Single Barrel: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 09:10 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 Evan Williams 1783 vs Evan Williams Single Barrel 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 1783 vs Evan Williams Single Barrel: Comparison

Evan Williams 1783: A budget-friendly bourbon with a peanut-forward profile, balanced by caramel sweetness and a hint of spice. Great for those seeking a straightforward, nutty bourbon without a hefty price tag.

Evan Williams Single Barrel: Offers a smooth, vanilla, and honey-driven profile with a medium-length finish. Ideal for bourbon enthusiasts looking for a gentle sipper that won’t overpower the palate, especially at an attractive price point.

Verdict: Evan Williams 1783 and Evan Williams Single Barrel both provide accessible, enjoyable bourbon experiences at value prices. 1783 appeals to those who enjoy nutty flavors, while the Single Barrel is perfect for those seeking a mild, smooth bourbon experience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Evan Williams 1783: Budget Bourbon Buddy

Nose: Peanut, vanilla frosting, cinnamon, brown sugar
Palate: Caramel, corn syrup, peanuts, cinnamon, oak
Finish: Charred oak, caramel
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Elijah Craig Small Batch

Sniff it: Peanut party! Buttery vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar join the nutty fun. Think peanut butter cookies meeting fall spices.

Sip it: Medium-bodied with upfront caramel sweetness. Then, corn syrup chimes in, followed by more peanuts, cinnamon, and a unique “postage stamp” note. Interesting, to say the least!

Finish it: Short and slightly dry, fading with lingering caramel and spicy oak. Not mind-blowing, but pleasant enough.

The verdict: Easy-drinking and smooth, especially for its price point. No bells and whistles, but also no major flaws.

Peanut powerhouse: The nutty character is prominent, but balanced by sweetness and spice. Like it or not, it’s the star of the show.

Reliable choice: No frills, just consistent quality at an affordable price. Great for when you want a decent bourbon without breaking the bank.

Bonus facts:

Aged 6-8 years, honoring Evan Williams’ 1783 distillery founding.
Uses over 200 barrels despite the “small batch” label.
78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley mash bill.

So, should you try it?

Craving a peanut-forward bourbon on a budget? This is your jam!
Prefer complex flavors without the nuttiness? Look elsewhere.
Want a reliable, affordable bourbon for casual sipping? 1783 delivers.

Remember, the best bourbon is the one you enjoy most. If you’re open to unique flavors and appreciate value, Evan Williams 1783 is a solid choice. But if you’re after something more complex or dislike peanuts, explore other options!

Evan Williams Single Barrel: Smooth Solo Sipper

Nose: Vanilla, oak, cotton candy
Palate: Spice, honey, vanilla, oak
Finish: Medium-length, honey, spice
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks
Similar to: Evan Williams BIB

Sniff it: Sweet and inviting, like vanilla frosting meets cotton candy in an oaky barrel. Comforting, familiar, but not mind-blowing.

Sip it: Light on texture, starts spicy then eases into honey, vanilla, and a touch of oak. Think mellow warmth without much depth.

Finish it: Decent length, dry with lingering honey and spice. Not overwhelming, but noticeable.

The verdict: Smooth, round, and easy to drink neat. No powerhouse, but enjoyable for casual sipping.

Not a cocktail champ: Lacks the boldness for mixed drinks. Stick to solo sipping.

Bonus facts:

Aged 10 years, 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley mash bill.
Vintage-dated with barrel and bottling information on each bottle.
Five-time “Whiskey of the Year” award winner.
Made by Heaven Hill Distillery alongside Elijah Craig, Larceny, and more.

So, should you try it?

Looking for a smooth, affordable single barrel for solo sipping? Go for it!
Want a bourbon for cocktails? This one might fall short.
Curious about single barrels but don’t want to break the bank? Evan Williams has you covered.

Remember, the best bourbon is the one you enjoy most. Evan Williams Single Barrel offers a sweet, smooth experience at a friendly price. Just manage your expectations if you’re looking for a complex sipper or a cocktail base.