Evan Williams BIB vs Henry McKenna 10

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:36 am

Discover the differences between Evan Williams vs Henry Mckenna 10 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 Bottled in Bond: A robust bourbon with a blend of vanilla, oak, and a grassy note, this whiskey delivers warmth and sweetness, perfect for cocktails. Offers great value with a notable kick.

Henry McKenna 10: Offering a bold, sweet, and spicy profile with vanilla, caramel, and oak. This 10-year-old bourbon is punchy yet pleasing, with a smooth finish and complex flavors. Ideal for those who appreciate depth in their sip.

Key Difference: Evan Williams BIB and Henry McKenna 10, both from Heaven Hill, are bottled-in-bond bourbons with the same mash bill. They differ in aging (McKenna at 10 years, Williams at 4) and McKenna’s single-barrel uniqueness versus Williams’ multi-barrel blend.

Verdict: Evan Williams Bottled in Bond and Henry McKenna 10 both highlight the craftsmanship of Heaven Hill Distillery, catering to different tastes. Whether you prefer a cocktail-friendly option or a sipping bourbon with age, each brings a unique experience to the table, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: 100-Proof Bourbons Recommendations

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

This bourbon packs a punch! Expect upfront warmth with a bold mix of sweet and oaky flavors.

Sweet & Spicy:

• Nose: Vanilla, oak, and a surprising grassy note mingle with a touch of alcohol heat.
• Taste: The initial warmth softens into sweetness, showcasing oak, vanilla, and that unique grassy touch.
• Finish: Moderate length with lingering warmth, oak spice, and subtle corn sweetness.

But is it smooth?

• Not the smoothest. This 100-proof bourbon has noticeable alcohol burn throughout.
• Great value, though! The sweetness and oaky notes shine, making it perfect for cocktails like Old Fashioneds.

A good choice for:

• Budget-minded bourbon lovers: You won’t find a better deal for this flavor profile.
• Cocktail enthusiasts: This bourbon adds depth and character to your mixed drinks.
• Fans of bolder spirits: The upfront heat might be just what you crave.

Things to know:

• Aged at least 4 years.
• Classic bourbon mash bill: 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley.
• Double Gold Medal winner at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Ready for a bold bourbon experience? Give Evan Williams Bottled in Bond a try! But remember, if smoothness is your priority, other options might be better suited.

Henry McKenna 10: Punchy yet Pleasing Bourbon

• Nose: Ethanol, vanilla, caramel, citrus, clove, nutmeg
• Palate: Caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, oak, baking spice
• Finish: Caramel, vanilla, oak
• Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Eagle Rare

Craving a bold bourbon with a sweet kick? Henry McKenna 10 might be your perfect match.

The good stuff:

• Inviting aroma: Vanilla, caramel, and warm spices like clove and nutmeg tickle your nose.
• Sweet & spicy flavor: Expect a burst of sweetness (vanilla, caramel, brown sugar) balanced by peppery rye spice and a touch of refreshing menthol.
• Smooth finish: Warmth fades into lingering notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and a hint of spice.

Things to keep in mind:

• Starts off lively: This bourbon packs a punch initially, so expect a noticeable warmth upfront. Adding a drop of water can ease things up.
• Not super complex: While enjoyable, it might not be your go-to if you prefer super intricate flavor profiles.

Overall:

Henry McKenna 10 is a bold and spirited bourbon that delivers on its promises. If you’re looking for a sweet, spicy, and satisfying sip (neat or on the rocks), give it a try!

Bonus facts:

• Bottled in bond, meaning it’s from one distillery, season, and barrel.
• Made with a classic bourbon mash bill: 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley.
• Praised by experts like Jim Murray (“magnificent”) and Wine Enthusiast (90-95 points).

Ready to explore? Find Henry McKenna 10 and see if it hits the right spot for you!

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Evan Williams White Label Bottled in Bond	$19
Henry McKenna 10 Year Bottled in Bond	$70