Gifting Question:

[Enoch]

I want to give a bottle of bourbon to someone who knows quite a lot about bourbon. From my stock, I have several bottles of Elijah Craig 12 year 1986...(First year it was released) and several bottles of Evan Williams Vintage Single Barrel 1986 ... First year it was released also. Which would you rather receive? Thanks,

[Clavius]

Without a doubt the Evan Williams since I'm a huge fan of the line. But also because I just do not care for EC12 at all.

[squire]

The Evan Williams is more appealing me to even though I preferred some later editions. Perhaps that's why I'd like a chance to revisit it.

[GaryT]

Wow - that is a tough one. I find the current iterations of those two to be quite different, despite them being close in age. Personally, I think I would prefer the EWSB, as that tends to be softer/sweeter, although I like EC12 sometimes (which to me is more dry, oaky). Not sure if you know which way their palate leans, although I think the thought alone behind either of these should be very well received.

[oke&coke]

I wouldn't sneeze at either one but leaning towards the EWSB myself.

[nd2005]

Tough call as I think either would be a very thoughtful gift.

I'd probably make the decision based on what I know of their personal tastes/preferences

[kickert]

I think the EWSB is a more impressive gift since it is a true vintage product. I know that doesn't get to the heart of your question, but I would instantly know the significance of the EWSB, but would need some background to be able to appreciate the EC12.

[Richnimrod]

Both very thoughtful choices. And, both very nice Bourbons. :grin:

Send me a bottle of each and I'll give you my final judgement... Ha! :drinking:

Just kidding. I'd take thye historical novelty of the very first EW SB. Besides it being a reliably nice pour, this a collector's Bourbon, I'd assume.

[dSculptor]

I think the EWSB is a more impressive gift since it is a true vintage product. I know that doesn't get to the heart of your question, but I would instantly know the significance of the EWSB, but would need some background to be able to appreciate the EC12.

I'll second that! 1986 EWSB nice.....

[393foureyedfox]

the EW may be more impressive of a gift, in that theyre clearly dated with specifics.

But Im the one guy so far that would rather have the EC12. Id not scoff at either, but I prefer EC12 over EW10

[mbroo5880i]

I love both! However, I would be beside myself is someone gave me a first year EWSB!

[Ravensfire]

I love both! However, I would be beside myself is someone gave me a first year EWSB!

Concur. There's just something about a single barrel that makes it special. And a bottle from this, a single barrel that uses the year as a way to differentiate, would make it more special to someone who knows bourbon.

[petrel800]

Another for the original EWSB. That would be a great gift and I've always enjoyed the line.