Evan Williams 8-year 1995 (pre-fire)

Experience a piece of bourbon history with the Evan Williams 1995, an 8-year-old expression offering exceptional smoothness and classic character. Meticulously charcoal filtered for purity, this vintage release embodies the rich legacy of Kentucky's first distiller in every beautifully balanced sip.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A gentle and inviting nose, with classic Evan Williams notes of sweet corn and vanilla bean. Subtler layers emerge with hints of toasted oak, dried apricot, and a whisper of baking spice – cinnamon and nutmeg. There's a faint earthiness, perhaps from the charcoal filtering, adding a touch of old-school character.

Palate: The palate is surprisingly smooth and approachable for its proof, a testament to its age and charcoal filtration. Sweet caramel and butterscotch greet the tongue, quickly followed by a pleasant warmth of oak and a delicate pepperiness. Notes of dried dark fruit, like fig and prune, intermingle with a subtle nuttiness. The 8-year aging has allowed a roundness to develop, avoiding any harsh edges.

Finish: The finish is medium in length and very clean, thanks to the charcoal filtering. It leaves a lingering sweetness of vanilla and a faint dry oak spice. A pleasant warmth persists without overwhelming, inviting another sip. The absence of astringency is notable, making for a remarkably smooth conclusion.

About the Distillery

Evan Williams, named after Kentucky's first commercial distiller who set up his still in 1783, is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery. Heaven Hill is the largest independent, family-owned and operated producer and marketer of distilled spirits in the United States, maintaining a commitment to traditional bourbon-making techniques over decades.