Evan Williams 23 Year Bourbon

The color is a profound, deep amber, leaving an oily sheen on the glass that quickly develops into heavy, long-running legs. The aroma immediately greets with a well-balanced blend of vanilla and toasted wood, which on closer inspection mingles with a rye spice possessing a spearmint and floral quality. As it evolves, these notes harmonize pleasantly, joined by hints of coconut and sweet butter. The palate is dry and rich, filling the mouth with vanilla and toasted oak, quickly followed by an eruption of baking spices, primarily cinnamon. It melds into a very creamy texture, with the floral rye scent permeating the mouth throughout. The finish is moderately long and oaky, with vanilla persisting while the baking spices maintain a hot and spicy sensation. The finish isn't quite as long as desired, as the creaminess dissipates sooner than expected, which was the most enjoyable aspect of this bourbon. Despite its 23 years, it doesn't exhibit its age and remains quite reserved.

Nose: Oak and more oak, sweetness, vanilla and caramel (tannins or ethanol when first poured and nosed)? Palate: Much of the same oak, sweetness, vanilla and caramel. Finish: Smooth at first, then tannic wood, a little hot, long-lasting. For the price of a bottle, it's nice to try, but not worth it for me to spend $350 for a bottle, although 23-year-old Heaven Hill spirit does command some respect.

This is the second time I've tried it, this time from a freshly opened bottle purchased in Kentucky. I must say it tastes much better than my previous tasting, which was from a small sample and rated 3.75 due to an off-taste, possibly tannins or ethanol. This is a very well-balanced spirit. The aroma is pleasing. The palate is delicious. The finish is flawless.

Classic bourbon characteristics are present, with an excellent balance in mouthfeel and finish. The alcohol content is impressive for the age statement. It is currently the best-tasting bourbon I've had. Despite the exceptionally high suggested retail price, I'm giving it a perfect score due to the aforementioned qualities.

Lovely flavor with an unexpected floral finish that's both invigorating and exciting. A wonderful spirit, though not quite remarkable enough to justify its steep cost.

In a blind comparison of nine bourbons and whiskeys, this was unequivocally the worst. The aroma and initial taste were pleasant, but the finish was truly unpleasant.