Evan Williams vs Old Grand Dad: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:32 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.

Uncover the differences between Evan Williams and Old Grand Dad in this direct comparison, and determine which Bourbon suits your taste preferences better!

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 Grand Dad: Comparison

Evan Williams Bourbon: A sweet and approachable bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey. Offers a decent body with a spicy and slightly bitter finish. Ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly, everyday bourbon that performs well both neat and in cocktails.

Old Grand Dad Bourbon: A rye-forward bourbon with a spicy palate and a warm, short finish. Its lower proof makes it smooth and accessible, though somewhat lacking in complexity. Suitable for everyday sipping and cocktail mixing, especially for those who favor a spicy profile.

Verdict: Evan Williams serves as a versatile and affordable option for bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a pleasant sipping experience with the flexibility for cocktail use.

Old Grand Dad appeals to those who appreciate the spice of rye in their bourbon, presenting a solid, budget-conscious choice for mixing or casual enjoyment, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Both whiskies offer distinct experiences within the affordable bourbon category, catering to different preferences and occasions.

Related: Bourbon under $20 Top Picks

Evan Williams Bourbon: A Sweet and Affordable Choice

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: Jack Daniel’s No. 7

Aromatic Delight: Evan Williams greets you with a sweet and inviting nose, featuring pleasant notes of honey, caramel, vanilla, and a subtle hint of warmth.

Decent Body and Flavor: This bourbon offers a respectable body and texture on the palate. The initial sweetness gives way to a touch of oak char bitterness and a subtle hint of aged leather in the background.

Warm and Spicy Finish: The finish is warming and slightly spicy with a lingering touch of leather. Adding a little water can soften the bitterness and accentuate the sweet caramel notes.

A Value for Everyday Enjoyment: While not the most refined bourbon on the market, Evan Williams delivers a decent drinking experience at an attractive price point. It’s a solid choice for everyday sipping or for those new to bourbon exploration.

Versatile Bourbon: Evan Williams also shines in cocktails and even offers a unique twist when mixed with Red Bull.

Evan Williams Bourbon: A Look Behind the Bottle

Made with a mash bill of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye.
Previously aged for 7 years, but the current age statement is not disclosed. It is estimated to be around 4 years old.
Crafted at the Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, alongside other renowned brands.

While Evan Williams may not be award-winning, it offers a reliable and versatile bourbon option for various drinking occasions.

Old Grand Dad: An Affordable Everyday Rye-Forward Bourbon

Nose: Vanilla, oak, rye spice
Palate: Rye spice, oak, sweet corn, brown sugar, cinnamon
Finish: Short-lived, warm, spicy
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Basil Hayden’s

Aromatic Introduction: Old Grand Dad opens with a pleasantly sweet nose featuring vanilla and spicy rye notes, followed by a hint of oak.

Rye Takes Center Stage: The palate is led by prominent rye spice, accompanied by oak, sweet corn, brown sugar, and hints of cinnamon that emerge over time.

Warm Finish: The finish is short and slightly warming with some oak spice bitterness, but it remains balanced and not overpowering.

A Solid Everyday Option: While Old Grand Dad offers affordability, smoothness, and manageable heat, it may come across as thin and lacking in body due to its lower proof. Despite being easy to sip, it might not leave a lasting impression and is often recommended for mixing with cola.

A Change in Proof: Previously bottled at 86 proof, Old Grand Dad was known for a more robust mouthfeel and flavor profile. The current lower 80 proof results in a noticeable difference in taste and body.

Old Grand Dad: A Legacy and Facts

Age statement: Not disclosed.
Mash bill: 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley.
Founded: 1882.
The man on the label: Basil Hayden, credited with introducing rye to the brand’s mash bill.
Produced at: Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, alongside other popular brands.

While not the most complex option, Old Grand Dad provides a reliable and affordable rye-forward bourbon experience for everyday enjoyment or mixing.