Evan Williams Bourbon logo

Old Evan Williams Distillery

Region
  • Kentucky, USA
Awards
  • Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon won Whiskey of the Year award five times, Evan Williams bourbons are consistently recognized for their unique characteristics.
Website
  • http://evanwilliamsbourbonexperience.com/
Phone Number
  • +15022722623
Address
  • 528 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience entrance on a city street.

History of Old Evan Williams


Old Evan Williams distillery was established in 1783 by Evan Williams, a Welsh immigrant. Recognized as one of the first commercial distilleries in Kentucky, it holds a significant place in American whiskey history.

Founder: Evan Williams 

Evan Williams, often hailed as Kentucky’s first distiller, set up his operation on the banks of the Ohio River. His commitment to quality and innovation laid the foundation for what would become a legendary brand in the whiskey industry.

Types of Whiskey 

The distillery offers a range of whiskies, including:

  • Evan Williams Black Label: A classic bourbon with a smooth, rich flavor.
  • Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond: Known for its robust and full-bodied profile.
  • Evan Williams Single Barrel: Aged to perfection with unique characteristics from each barrel.
  • Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch: A tribute to the founding year, offering a premium, well-balanced taste.

Legacy and Modern Day 

Today, Old Evan Williams continues to produce high-quality bourbon, maintaining the traditions and standards set by its founder. The brand is celebrated for its historical significance and its dedication to crafting exceptional whiskey, enjoyed by enthusiasts worldwide.

Awards Won by Old Evan Williams

Whiskey of the Year: Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon won Whiskey of the Year award five times, showcasing its exceptional quality and craftsmanship​.

Commemorative Releases: Special edition bottles, such as those released for the 10th anniversary of the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and the Kentucky Derby Festival, have received critical acclaim and are highly sought after by collectors​.

Critical Acclaim: Evan Williams bourbons are consistently recognized for their unique characteristics and high-quality production process, contributing to the brand’s strong reputation in the industry​.

Old Evan Williams Tour Information and Experience

The Old Evan Williams tour, offered at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, Kentucky, is a must-visit for bourbon enthusiasts. Located on historic Whiskey Row, this immersive tour delves into the rich history and craftsmanship behind one of America’s most iconic bourbon brands.

Tour Highlights

  • Historical Journey: The tour begins with a fascinating look at the history of Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first commercial distiller. Guests are guided through high-definition video recreations of the Louisville wharf and Main Street in the late 18th century, providing a vivid picture of the early days of bourbon production​.
  • Modern Distilling Process: Visitors are then taken through the modern distilling process. This part of the tour includes a visit to the on-site micro-distillery, which produces about a barrel a day. The guides explain the intricacies of bourbon production, including the use of 51% corn, sour mash, and column stills​.
  • Tasting Sessions: No tour is complete without a tasting session. Guests have the opportunity to sample various Evan Williams products, including the Evan Williams Black Label, Evan Williams Single Barrel, and special releases like the Kentucky Derby Festival editions. Tastings are complemented by explanations of each product’s unique characteristics and flavor profiles​.

Special Features

  • Whiskey Row Recreated: One unique aspect of the tour is the reconstruction of Whiskey Row, which provides an engaging historical context. This section covers important topics such as the Bottled-in-Bond Act, prohibition, and the evolution of the bourbon industry​.
  • Exclusive Bottles: The tour often features exclusive, limited-edition bottles available for purchase. These special releases, such as the commemorative Evan Williams Single Barrel for the 10th anniversary of the Bourbon Experience, are highly prized by collectors​.

Additional Information

  • Booking and Availability: Tours are available by reservation and can be booked through the website. They operate several times a day, providing flexibility for visitors.
  • Location: The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is located at 528 W Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202. It is an official stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, making it a convenient addition to any bourbon tour itinerary​.

Flask & Barrel Review of Old Evan Williams

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a newcomer to the world of whiskey, the Old Evan Williams tour offers a rich, educational, and enjoyable experience that highlights the legacy and craft of Kentucky bourbon.

I recently had the chance to visit the Old Evan Williams Bourbon Experience in Louisville, and it was definitely a highlight on my bourbon tour journey. As a whiskey collector who’s been to many distilleries, I was impressed by the unique blend of history and modernity they offered.

The tour kicked off with a walk through the history of Evan Williams, Kentucky’s first commercial distiller. The high-definition video recreations of 18th-century Louisville were both informative and visually engaging. It really set the scene and gave me a deep appreciation for the roots of this iconic brand.

Next, we moved on to the modern distilling process. Although I’ve seen my fair share of distilleries, the micro-distillery at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience stood out. It’s amazing to see how they produce a barrel a day right on site. The guide did an excellent job explaining the details, from the 51% corn mash to the sour mash process. It was clear, concise, and interesting—even for someone who knows the basics.

The tasting session was, of course, the highlight. We got to sample Evan Williams Black Label, Evan Williams Single Barrel, and a couple of special releases. Each pour was carefully explained, and it was fascinating to learn about the nuances in flavor profiles. My favorite was the Single Barrel; it had a depth and complexity that really stood out.

One unique aspect of the tour was the reconstructed Whiskey Row. This part of the experience covered a lot of ground, from the Bottled-in-Bond Act to Prohibition. It added a lot of context and helped me understand the broader history of bourbon in America.

Overall, I’d rate my experience a solid 4.7 out of 5. The only minor downside was that the tour could have been a bit longer, especially in the tasting section. But, all in all, it was a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours in Louisville.

What To Do Nearby Old Evan Williams

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Take a swing at America’s favorite pastime at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Learn about the history of baseball bats, see how they’re made, and even take a whack in a batting cage – 0.7 miles away.

Frazier History Museum: Discover the rich history of Louisville and Kentucky at the Frazier History Museum. Explore permanent and rotating exhibits that delve into everything from the Civil War to bourbon making – 0.4 miles away.

Fourth Street Live!: If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, head to Fourth Street Live! This entertainment district boasts a variety of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops – 0.8 miles away.

The Kentucky Science Center: Spark your curiosity at the Kentucky Science Center, a hands-on science museum with exhibits on everything from space exploration to the human body – 1.2 miles away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Old Evan Williams?

Global Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 2320 Frankfort Ave, Louisville, KY 40206. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-896-1016.

Proof On Main: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 702 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-217-6360.

Mussel & Burger Bar: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 113 S 7th St, Louisville, KY 40202. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-302-7744.

What hotels are near Old Evan Williams?

The Seelbach Hilton Louisville: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 500 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-585-3200.

Omni Louisville Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 400 S 2nd St, Louisville, KY 40202. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-313-6664.

The Brown Hotel: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is 335 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40202. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +1 502-583-1234.