Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%) vs Famous Grouse Smoky Black

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%)Famous Grouse Smoky Black
DistilleryEvan WilliamsFamous Grouse
RegionOther Scotch
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended
ABV43%40%
Age7 yrNAS
Price£26.75£19.5
Rating4.52/53.44/5

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

Famous Grouse Smoky Black

Smoke64/100
Sweetness45/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Famous Grouse Smoky Black

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%) is rated higher (4.52 vs 3.44).

Famous Grouse Smoky Black is better value at £20 vs £27.

For beginners: Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%) is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Higher community rating (4.5/5)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£26.75 vs £19.5)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Famous Grouse Smoky Black

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£19.5 vs £26.75)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.4 vs 4.5)

Who should buy Evan?

Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Famous?

Famous Grouse Smoky Black suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Tasting notes

Only Evan Williams Extra Aged (43%)

VanillaHoneyToastedNew Wood

Only Famous Grouse Smoky Black

SmokeyFresh FruitMalt Extract

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