Trust me, I get the marketing and the need for "knockoff" liquor. All I'm saying is that as someone who learned to drink on Jack Daniels and Jim Beam, I think Evan Williams is better than the price and reputation would lead me to believe.

Bear in mind, I never actually had Evan Williams until I was in my late 20's and I had already started to develop a decent palate for Scotch and tequila (and craft beer and wine). When I finally actually tasted Evan Williams, I found I preferred it to any of the other cheap bourbons I've ever had (again, especially in a mixed drink). If I was looking for a sipping whiskey, personally I'd look for Scotch or Irish whiskey, because I don't prefer sweeter whiskeys, but Evan Williams will always be a staple for me.