Evan Williams Single Barrel 250th Anniversary 750ML

Evan Williams Single Barrel 250th Anniversary 750ML is a commemorative Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 86.6 proof (43.3% ABV) in a 750ml format. This limited release from Heaven Hill Distillery honors the legacy of Evan Williams, credited with establishing Kentucky's first commercial distillery in 1783, and showcases the depth and individuality that single barrel selection provides.

Quick Facts: ABV: 43.3%  |  Origin: Kentucky, USA  |  Single Barrel Bourbon  |  Distillery: Heaven Hill

Production & Heritage

Heaven Hill Distillery, headquartered in Bardstown, Kentucky, has been producing bourbon since 1935 and remains one of the largest family-owned and operated distillers in the United States. The 250th Anniversary Single Barrel uses the traditional Evan Williams sour mash process with a mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, distilled through a column still and matured in new charred American oak barrels. As a single barrel expression, each bottle draws its character from one individual barrel rather than a blend, meaning slight variation exists from barrel to barrel—a hallmark valued by bourbon collectors and enthusiasts seeking distinct flavor profiles.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Rich caramel and toasted oak lead the nose, followed by layers of vanilla bean, dried honey, and a subtle undercurrent of baking spice. A hint of leather and dried fruit emerges as the bourbon opens up in the glass.

Taste: The palate opens with warm butterscotch and dark caramel, transitioning into toasted oak and brown sugar at mid-palate. Notes of cinnamon, black pepper, and a touch of charred wood build toward the peak, balanced by a sweet corn backbone that keeps the spice in check.

Finish: Medium-long with lingering caramel, oak tannins, and a gentle warmth of baking spice. A clean, slightly dry exit leaves traces of vanilla and toasted grain.

How to Drink the 250th Anniversary Single Barrel

Neat is the recommended approach for this single barrel expression, as the 86.6-proof strength delivers full flavor without overwhelming heat; a few drops of water will further open the caramel and oak character. This bourbon also performs well in thoughtfully built cocktails:

• Bourbon Old Fashioned: The deep caramel and oak structure hold their ground against bitters and a sugar cube, maintaining complexity rather than washing out.
• Manhattan: The vanilla sweetness and underlying spice complement sweet vermouth without competing, producing a well-rounded drink.
• Mint Julep: The corn-forward sweetness and moderate proof pair naturally with fresh mint and crushed ice, a fitting choice given the bourbon's Kentucky heritage.

Best For

• Gifting a bourbon collector who appreciates commemorative releases
• Side-by-side single barrel tastings with friends
• Celebrating milestones or special occasions with American whiskey
• Building a bourbon library that includes limited and anniversary expressions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Evan Williams 250th Anniversary taste like? It delivers a caramel-and-vanilla-forward palate with toasted oak, brown sugar, and moderate baking spice, finishing with a clean, medium-long warmth typical of well-aged single barrel bourbon.

How does the 250th Anniversary compare to Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage? Both expressions share the same Heaven Hill mashbill and single barrel selection process, but the 250th Anniversary is a commemorative bottling with distinct barrel selections that may differ in age profile or warehouse placement from the standard vintage-dated releases.

Is the 250th Anniversary good for sipping neat? Yes—at 43.3% ABV, it sits at a very approachable proof that delivers full bourbon flavor without excessive alcohol burn, making it well suited for neat sipping or with a single ice cube.

Where is Evan Williams 250th Anniversary made? It is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, one of the largest family-owned spirits companies in the United States, operating since 1935.

What foods pair well with the 250th Anniversary? Smoked brisket or pulled pork complements the charred oak notes; dark chocolate or pecan pie mirrors the caramel and vanilla sweetness; sharp cheddar cheese provides a savory contrast to the bourbon's corn-forward richness; and grilled stone fruit like peaches draws out the subtle dried fruit character on the nose.

What sizes does the 250th Anniversary come in? This commemorative release is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.

Is the 250th Anniversary worth the price? It positions as a premium single barrel bourbon within the Evan Williams lineup, offering individual barrel character and commemorative significance that appeal to collectors, while remaining accessible compared to many limited-edition single barrel bourbons on the market.

Why the 250th Anniversary Single Barrel?

What sets this expression apart is its dual identity: it carries the single barrel individuality that has made the Evan Williams Single Barrel line respected among bourbon drinkers, while marking a significant historical milestone tied to the origins of Kentucky bourbon distilling. Heaven Hill's barrel selection for commemorative releases typically draws from prime warehouse locations, and the 86.6-proof bottling strength preserves the nuanced character that can be lost at lower proofs. For drinkers who value provenance, production integrity, and a connection to bourbon history, this 250th Anniversary release represents a meaningful addition to the category.