Evan Williams vs Old Forester 86

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 08:15 pm

Discover the differences between Evan Williams vs Old Forester 86 in this head-to-head 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 Old Forester 86: Comparison

Evan Williams: A straightforward bourbon that offers a welcoming mix of honey, caramel, and vanilla for those seeking simple, sweet satisfaction. It’s an accessible and budget-friendly whiskey, perfect for casual sipping or as a base in mixed drinks.

Old Forester 86: Provides a slightly more complex experience with its vanilla, banana, and oak profile, making it a versatile choice for both neat sipping and cocktail crafting. Its affordable price and solid quality make it a smart pick for bourbon enthusiasts looking for value.

Verdict: Evan Williams stands out for those prioritizing simplicity and affordability in their bourbon choice, while Old Forester 86 appeals to those desiring a bit of depth and versatility without spending much, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Bourbons that taste like Evan Williams

Evan Williams: Sweet Sipper, Simple Satisfaction

• 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: Maker’s Mark

Don’t expect bells and whistles with Evan Williams, but it delivers honest sweetness for an easygoing price. Here’s the lowdown:

Nose: Dive into honey, caramel, and vanilla, with a light whisper of warmth – a sweet invitation.

Palate: Decent body, offering sweetness upfront. Aged leather adds character, then oak steps in with a mild bitter touch, nothing harsh.

Finish: Aged leather lingers, joined by a warming spice explosion. A drop of water smooths it out and dials up the caramel.

More Than Awards? Not necessarily. It might not win fancy titles, but it holds its own as a decent, budget-friendly option.

Picky Palates Be Warned: If you crave complexity, look elsewhere. Evan Williams is about simple, sweet satisfaction.

Nightcap Nirvana? Absolutely! At its price point, it’s a great choice for unwinding with a warming nightcap.

Cocktail Champion: Yes! Its affordability makes it perfect for crafting enjoyable, budget-friendly mixed drinks.

Evan Williams Facts:

• 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye – a classic bourbon blend.
• Around 4 years of age, not too young, not too old.
• Made by the legendary Heaven Hill Distillery, home to other greats like Elijah Craig.

So, Evan Williams won’t be your “top shelf” brag, but it’s a sweet and affordable friend for casual sips and budget-conscious cocktails. Not fancy, but it gets the job done!

Old Forester 86: Solid Sipper, Savvy Mixer

• Nose: Brown sugar, caramel, ethanol
• Palate: Vanilla, banana, oak, spice
• Finish: Caramel, oak
• Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
• Similar to: Bulleit Bourbon

Old Forester 86: not a flavor bomb, but a trusty companion for your bourbon journey. Here’s the deal:

Nose: Brace yourself for an initial ethanol punch, but hold on, it clears to reveal sweet brown sugar and caramel. Comforting!

Palate: Medium-bodied and smooth, like a well-worn jacket. Vanilla, banana, and cinnamon dance with a touch of oaky spice. Easygoing, no surprises.

Finish: Short and sweet, with caramel and oak notes saying goodbye without lingering drama. No warmth to knock you off your feet.

Neat or Rocks? Both work! Enjoy it as you please, it adapts.

Cocktails? Absolutely! The 86 proof adds backbone to affordable mixes. Think Old Fashioneds or Manhattans on a budget.

Value for Money? Yes! Surpasses basic Bourbons like Jim Beam, but doesn’t quite reach the complexity of pricier options like Buffalo Trace. A solid middle ground.

Old Forester Facts:

• Aged around 4 years, not a youngster but not yet an elder.
• 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malted barley – a classic bourbon blend.
• Pioneered bottled bourbon, ensuring consistent quality for you.
• Launched in 1870, steeped in history and named after a bourbon-loving doctor (cheers!).

So, while Old Forester 86 won’t knock your socks off with complexity, it’s a reliable and affordable choice for sipping or mixing. A bourbon that knows its place and does it well.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price	Bottle Size
Evan Williams	$18	1L
Old Forester 86	$29	1L