Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 07:49 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 vs Wild Turkey 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 Wild Turkey: Comparison
Evan Williams: A budget-friendly bourbon boasting caramel, honey, and spice notes, offering a straightforward, no-frills experience perfect for daily enjoyment or mixing cocktails.
Wild Turkey 81: A sweet and simple option with gentle corn sweetness, vanilla, and oak flavors, ideal for budget-conscious drinkers looking for a versatile bourbon for mixed drinks.
Verdict: Evan Williams serves as a reliable daily bourbon buddy, delivering solid value with its affordable price tag and practical versatility. On the other hand, Wild Turkey 81 offers a sweet and straightforward experience suitable for mixing cocktails, making it a worthy addition to any home bar, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top-Rated Bourbons under $20
Evan Williams: Your Daily Bourbon Buddy
- 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: Ezra Brooks
Craving a classic bourbon fix without breaking the bank? Evan Williams steps up to the plate, offering a straightforward, no-frills experience that’s easy on the wallet.
Honeyed Nose: Expect sweetness to greet you first, with honey, caramel, and vanilla swirling harmoniously, accompanied by a subtle whisper of alcohol.
Textured Taste: The first sip brings a pleasant fullness, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of aged leather – a subtle nod to the oak influence. Don’t worry, it’s not overpowering!
Lively Finish: The finale stays true to the leather note, offering a warming sensation with lingering hints of spice. A quick dash of water can smooth it out for an even more enjoyable experience.
Solid & Affordable: While not winning any fancy awards, Evan Williams excels in its practicality. It’s a straightforward bourbon with a touch of edge compared to smoother options, but that’s part of its charm.
Value for Money: For its price, it’s hard to beat! Ideal for nightly pours or crafting flavorful cocktails without denting your budget.
Keep it Handy: Stock up on a bottle of Evan Williams. Its warm, familiar character makes it a reliable friend for casual sipping or mixing delicious drinks.
Evan Williams Facts:
- 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye mash bill.
- Aged around 4 years.
- Made in Bardstown, Kentucky.
- Founded by an immigrant with a knack for good bourbon.
Wild Turkey 81: Sweet & Simple
- Nose: Corn, vanilla, charred oak
- Palate: Oak, corn, vanilla, rye spice, caramel
- Finish: Medium-length, vanilla, spice, oak
- Alcohol content: 81 proof (40.5% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Old Forester 86
Looking for a budget-friendly bourbon for mixed drinks? Wild Turkey 81 delivers a classic corn sweetness at a price point that won’t break the bank.
Subtle & Sweet Nose: Don’t expect complexity. This entry-level bourbon offers gentle hints of corn, vanilla, and a whisper of charred oak.
Sweet on the Palate: Corn reigns supreme, joined by vanilla and caramel for a familiarly sweet sip. Charred oak and a touch of rye spice linger in the background.
Finish That Bites: Expect a short-to-medium finish with a slight bite, oak char lingering long after the sweetness fades.
Sipping or Mixing? While Turkey 81 works in cocktails, its lower proof and dilution may leave discerning palates wanting more depth. If sipping’s your goal, consider the Wild Turkey 101 for a bolder, more satisfying experience.
Ice for Smoothness: If you prefer a gentler approach, adding ice can tame the warmth and oak astringency.
Wild Turkey Facts:
- 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% barley mash bill.
- Aged 6-8 years in heavily charred barrels.
- Made with non-GMO American grains.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Bourbon | Price |
| Evan Williams | $11 |
| Wild Turkey | $17 |