Evan Williams Black Label

I know that I'm 'supposed' to like the EW W BIB more than this one but I don't. After a night of drinking them side by side, allowing myself to instinctually refill the glencairn that was running low, at the end of the night the EW B was the clear winner.

Having had the EW White Label BIB I had to try the black. At $17/liter (yes, liter, not 750ml) it's the cheapest whiskey I've tried. This is nothing earth shattering, just good bourbon. If this were sitting in the usual $25-$30 range, I would say pass it up. But at this price it makes a great staple bottle for mixing. And since I love me a Manhattan, this will probably be my go to from here on out. EW Black Label is bottled at 43% ABV. Kind of nice that it's slightly higher than the obligatory 40%. A dark amber in the glass, it has unimpressive legs. The usual oily coating has watery looking breaks in it. Since it's straight bourbon I know it's aged at least two years, but I'd say not much more. The nose surprised me with a very noticeable alcohol burn. Even after letting it sit in the glass for a while it was still there, a testament to its young age I assume. Beyond the alcohol there is vanilla, some caramel, and some green oak notes. Nothing spectacular, but not bad either. On the palate there is a strong sweetness with all the typical bourbon flavors: vanilla, caramel, some cola and some oak. Thick mouthfeel. Again, considering its ABV it came across a little hot. Kids... The finish is short, a little dry, and oaky. Nice after the sweet bomb in the mouth. Is this a 5-star whiskey? No. But it is a great bourbon at a great price, one that will always have a place on my shelf. Cheers!

Great Jack 7 substitute

Dark copper fruits and floral smells Cinnamon and spices on the tongue Burn on the aftermath Seems crude and rough. More flavor than JB but JB is sweeter.