Evan Williams vs Henry McKenna

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:38 pm

Discover the differences between Evan Williams vs Henry McKenna 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 Henry McKenna: Comparison

Evan Williams Bourbon: Delivers a pleasant nose of caramel, vanilla, and honey, with a straightforward palate of honey, spice, and old leather. An affordable choice for those seeking sweetness without complexity.

Henry McKenna: Offers gentle aromas of caramel and vanilla, leading to a smooth sip of caramel, vanilla, and light oak spice. A value option for easy, uncomplicated enjoyment.

Verdict: “Both Evan Williams Bourbon and Henry McKenna serve as solid, budget-friendly options for bourbon enthusiasts. Evan Williams stands out for those who prefer a sweeter profile with a hint of old leather and oak char, making it versatile for both sipping and mixing. Henry McKenna, with its smooth and simple sipping quality, appeals to those seeking a no-frills bourbon experience.”, states whisky expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best-Tasting Bourbons under $20

Sweet for Less: Evan Williams Bourbon

• 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: Early Times

Looking for a budget-friendly bourbon that prioritizes sweetness and smoothness? Evan Williams might just be your golden ticket. Here’s why:

Honeyed Nose:

• Expect a welcoming aroma, led by honey and caramel with hints of vanilla. A slightly noticeable ethanol touch fades with time, revealing a pleasant sweetness.

Decent Sip:

• The palate isn’t complex, but it does offer some texture. Sweetness takes center stage, followed by a touch of aged leather and a mild oak bitterness that adds depth.

Warm Finish:

• The warmth lingers after the sip, leaving a hint of that aged leather behind. Not unpleasant, but perhaps not for everyone.

Water Enhances:

• A touch of water does wonders, coaxing out more caramel sweetness and smoothing out any rough edges. Experiment and find your perfect balance!

Affordable Allure:

• Let’s face it, the real draw here is the price point. Evan Williams delivers a solid bourbon experience without breaking the bank.

No Luxury Pretenses:

• This bourbon isn’t trying to win awards for complexity or refinement. It’s more about providing a satisfying and unpretentious sip.

Cocktail Champ:

• Forget fancy cocktails – Evan Williams shines in simpler mixes. Its warmth and flavor add depth without demanding top-shelf prices.

Sipping or Mixing:

• Whether you prefer it neat or in a classic Old Fashioned, Evan Williams adapts well. It’s a reliable choice for both sipping and mixing.

A Storied Past:

• Beyond the bourbon, there’s history! Evan Williams himself migrated from the UK to establish his namesake distillery in the 18th century, adding a touch of heritage to your pour.

The Verdict:

• If you prioritize affordability, sweetness, and a smooth experience, Evan Williams offers a solid option. It may not win you over with complexity, but it delivers reliable satisfaction for sipping or mixing. Consider it the good-natured, budget-friendly neighbor of the bourbon world.

Henry McKenna: Smooth & Simple Sipping Satisfaction

• Nose: Caramel, vanilla, corn
• Palate: Caramel, vanilla, corn, oak spice
• Finish: Caramel, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
• Similar to: Benchmark

Looking for a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon without breaking the bank? Henry McKenna might just be your ticket. Here’s what you can expect:

Gentle Aromas:

• Expect a light and welcoming nose, with caramel leading the way, followed by subtle hints of vanilla and sweet corn. This bourbon doesn’t overpower, but invites you in for a relaxed sipping experience.

Sweet & Smooth Sip:

• Get ready for a smooth, almost watery mouthfeel. This doesn’t mean thin, though! The palate is pleasantly sweet, featuring vanilla, caramel, and corn notes, with a gentle oak spice building in the background. A touch of minerality adds a unique intrigue.

Quick Finish:

• The finish doesn’t linger long, leaving behind fleeting hints of caramel and oak spice with minimal heat. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a clean and quick finish.

Value Champion:

• Despite its smooth character, Henry McKenna shines with its surprisingly affordable price tag. It’s a great option for those seeking a pleasant sipper without the award-winning price tag.

Uncomplicated Enjoyment:

• This bourbon isn’t about complexity or boldness. It’s about delivering a smooth, sweet, and uncomplicated drinking experience. Perfect for relaxing or enjoying alongside friends.

Beyond the Bottle:

• Aged for at least 4 years and crafted with a classic corn, barley, and rye mash bill, Henry McKenna stays true to traditional bourbon principles.

The Verdict:

• If you’re looking for a smooth, sweet, and affordable bourbon for easy sipping, Henry McKenna delivers. It won’t win awards for complexity, but it offers a pleasant and surprisingly enjoyable experience for the price. So, raise a glass and keep it simple!

What do they have in common?

Both of these bourbons are crafted at the Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, which is also responsible for producing other bourbons such as Elijah Craig, Rittenhouse Rye, and Larceny.

They share the same mash bill and undergo an equal duration of aging.

How do Evan Williams and Henry McKenna differ?

The difference between Evan Williams and Henry McKenna lies in the proof as the first is bottled at 94 proof and the latter at 80 proof.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Bourbon	Price
Evan Williams	$18
Henry McKenna	$18