Evan Williams 8-year 1999 (pre-fire)

Experience a taste of bourbon history with this 1999 8-year-old Evan Williams, a testament to traditional Kentucky distilling. Its 'Smooth & Mellow' character, enhanced by charcoal filtering, delivers a timeless profile of vanilla, caramel, and refined oak. This limited release offers a unique opportunity to savor a piece of Evan Williams' storied past, perfect for sipping and collecting alike.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A gentle and inviting nose, revealing classic bourbon notes of sweet vanilla bean and caramel, underpinned by a delicate oak char. Hints of dried orange peel, toasted corn, and a subtle nuttiness emerge with aeration, suggesting a well-aged but not overly aggressive wood influence. The charcoal filtering seems to lend a clean, crisp aromatic profile.

Palate: The entry is soft and mellow, living up to its label claim. Sweetness from corn and caramel quickly spreads, balanced by a refined oak spice and a touch of black pepper. The 86 proof makes it approachable, allowing a creamy mouthfeel to develop. Notes of butterscotch, light brown sugar, and a fleeting impression of stone fruit – perhaps dried apricot – mingle with the ever-present vanilla. The charcoal filtering contributes to a remarkably smooth texture.

Finish: A medium-length, clean finish that showcases the charcoal filtration. Sweetness fades gently, leaving behind a pleasant warmth and lingering notes of toasted oak, a whisper of vanilla, and a hint of dark chocolate. There's a subtle dryness that encourages another sip, free from any rough edges or overly tannic bitterness. The 'smooth & mellow' characteristic truly shines through here.

About the Distillery

Evan Williams, established by Heaven Hill Distillery, pays homage to Kentucky's first commercial distiller who began operations in 1783 along the Ohio River. While the original distillery no longer exists, Heaven Hill carries on the legacy of pioneering bourbon production through the Evan Williams brand, focusing on consistent quality and traditional methods. The 'Old Evan Williams Distillery' referenced on the label signifies the historical connection to Kentucky's distilling heritage, although the bottling itself would have occurred at Heaven Hill's facilities.