2008 Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

Produced by the Heaven Hill Distillery, the vintage bottlings under the Evan Williams label have developed a keen following having set a high standard from the get-go. A five-time Whiskey of the Year award winner, vintages started in 1986 with many critics claiming each new edition better than the last.

While most Bourbon is a blend of many barrels, this is 'Single Barrel' and with a date to mark its age. It's the subtle year-to-year differences that keep Bourbon lovers coming back to the series - not to mention the very reasonable asking prices (if you purchase them on release). No surprise that back vintages are now commanding premiums. This edition was barrelled 2008 and bottled 2016. Hand numbered, wax dipped bottles.

Tasting note: Brilliant polished gold. Debonair, with all the classic Bourbon notes presented in a pillow-soft bouquet, balanced by peel zest freshness. The restrained sophistication translates to the palate with a soft-textured delivery of sawn oak, peach tart and caramel flavours and a zesty, warming finish. A thread of peach nectar and vanilla wafer through the aftertaste with late mint refreshing the whole. Subtle in a way that draws you in, it’s the antitheses of macho in Bourbon. Very limited stocks. 43.3% Alc/Vol.