Evan Williams Bottled in Bond vs Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:39 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 Bottled in Bond vs Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond 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 BIB vs Heaven Hill BIB: Comparison

Evan Williams Bottled in Bond: Delivers bold sweetness and warmth, more suited for cocktails than neat sipping. A great choice for enhancing mixed drinks with its robust flavor.

Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond: Offers a comforting, warm sip with vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. Ideal for those seeking a classic bourbon experience with a smooth finish.

Verdict: “Evan Williams Bottled in Bond shines as a cocktail base, offering bold flavors at great value. Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond, with its longer aging and smoother profile, caters to those preferring a refined sip.”, states whisky expert Neil Coleman.

Evan Williams Bottled in Bond: Sweetness with a Kick

Nose: Vanilla, oak, grassy hint, ethanol
Palate: Oak, maple syrup, vanilla, grassy
Finish: Lingering heat, corn, oak spice
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Cocktails
Similar to: Very Old Barton 100

Sweet start: Evan Williams opens with a bold burst of sweetness, dominated by vanilla and oak. A distinct grassy note adds a unique twist, balanced by a hint of warming alcohol.

Warm & toasty: The palate packs a noticeable punch, but the sweetness carries through, intertwined with oaky character and subtle vanilla whispers. The grassy note returns, now joined by a touch of sweet corn.

Finish with fire: The finale lingers with a moderate warmth, offering remnants of oak spice and corn sweetness alongside a lingering ethanol tingle.

Good, but not for sipping: While pleasant notes of sweetness and oak shine through, the strong alcohol presence makes it more suited for mixed drinks than neat sipping.

Cocktail champion: This bottle truly shines in bold cocktails like the Old Fashioned, where its warmth and sweetness contribute complexity and character.

Bonus facts: Aged at least 4 years, 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley, Double Gold Medal winner!

Final verdict: If you’re searching for a smooth sipper, look elsewhere. But for adding depth and sweetness to your cocktails, Evan Williams Bottled in Bond delivers excellent value and bold flavor.

Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond: A Warm & Satisfying Sip

Nose: Vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, brown sugar
Palate: Grape, vanilla, caramel, oak spice
Finish: Long, caramel, spice
Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Henry McKenna 10

Uncork a comforting classic: Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond greets you with rich vanilla and caramel aromas, joined by warming cinnamon and brown sugar. A fleeting touch of heat disappears as you dive in.

Smooth as butter: The first sip is luxuriously creamy, followed by a gentle wave of warmth and a surprising hint of grape. Classic bourbon notes of vanilla, caramel, and a touch of spice round out the flavor profile.

Lingering warmth: The finish is long and warming, with a mild, pleasant burn that doesn’t overpower. Caramel sweetness and subtle spice linger, leaving you wanting more.

Hot, but not harsh: Don’t let the initial warmth scare you off. It’s balanced, not harsh. A splash of water unlocks more caramel and oak flavors, making it even smoother for sipping.

Enjoyable & familiar: While not groundbreaking, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond delivers a satisfying experience for those who appreciate classic bourbon with a bit of warmth.

Bonus facts: Aged 7 years, made with 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley.

Ready to explore? Give Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond a try and see if it warms your spirits!

What do they have in common?

These bourbons are both crafted by the Heaven Hill Distillery using the same mash and are bottled in bond at 100 proof (50% ABV).

How do they differ?

The Evan Williams undergoes a minimum aging period of 4 years, as required for its bottled-in-bond designation, while the Heaven Hill is aged for a longer period of 7 years.