If you’ve ever perused the spirits aisle or studied a cocktail menu, you’ve likely come across terms like “bourbon” and “whiskey.” While both are beloved amber-colored spirits with deep historical roots, they’re not exactly the same. So, what’s the difference between bourbon and whiskey? Let’s break it down.
What Is Whiskey?
Whiskey (or whisky, depending on where it’s from) is a distilled spirit made from fermented grain mash. The grains typically include barley, corn, rye, and wheat. After distillation, the liquid is aged in wooden barrels, which impart flavor and color to the spirit.
Types of Whiskey
Whiskey comes in many forms, often distinguished by geography and ingredients. Some of the most notable types include:
- Scotch Whisky: Made in Scotland, primarily from malted barley.
- Irish Whiskey: Distilled in Ireland, often triple-distilled for smoothness.
- American Whiskey: Includes bourbon, rye whiskey, and Tennessee whiskey.
- Canadian Whisky: Typically smoother and often made with a blend of grains.
What Is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a specific type of American whiskey. To qualify as bourbon, a spirit must meet strict legal criteria, making it a unique subset of whiskey.
Legal Requirements for Bourbon
- Made in the USA: Bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States, although Kentucky is its spiritual home and the origin of most bourbons.
- Mash Bill: The grain mash must contain at least 51% corn.
- Aging Process: It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
- Proof Levels:
- It must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol).
- Enter the barrel at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol).
- Bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% alcohol).
- No Additives: Bourbon cannot contain any flavoring or coloring; its taste and color must come solely from the grains and the aging process.
Key Differences Between Bourbon and Whiskey
| Aspect | Whiskey | Bourbon |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Produced globally (Scotland, Ireland, Canada, US) | Must be made in the United States |
| Grain Mash | Varies by type (barley, rye, wheat, corn) | Must contain at least 51% corn |
| Barrels | Can use new or reused barrels | Must be aged in new, charred oak barrels |
| Flavor Profile | Wide range depending on type | Sweeter, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak |
| Additives | May include flavoring or coloring | No additives allowed |
Flavor Profiles: Bourbon vs. Whiskey
- Bourbon: Thanks to its high corn content and aging in new, charred oak barrels, bourbon has a rich, sweet flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It’s smooth and easy-drinking, which makes it a favorite for both sipping neat and mixing into cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Mint Julep.
- Whiskey: The flavor of whiskey depends on the type. For example:
- Scotch Whisky often has a smoky, peaty flavor.
- Irish Whiskey is light and smooth.
- Rye Whiskey has a spicier, more robust profile.
Is All Bourbon Whiskey? Yes. Is All Whiskey Bourbon? No.
Think of bourbon as a specific category within the broader whiskey family. While all bourbon is whiskey, not all whiskey qualifies as bourbon. The same logic applies to other types of whiskey like Scotch or rye—they’re distinct styles of whiskey with unique rules and flavor profiles.
Kentucky and the Bourbon Connection
Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon for a good reason: around 95% of the world’s bourbon is produced there. The state’s limestone-filtered water, rich grain supply, and favorable climate for barrel aging have made it the epicenter of bourbon production. However, bourbon doesn’t legally have to come from Kentucky—it just has to be made in the United States.
Popular Brands of Each
- Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam, Knob Creek, and Woodford Reserve.
- Whiskey: Glenfiddich (Scotch), Jameson (Irish), Crown Royal (Canadian), and Wild Turkey Rye.
How to Enjoy Bourbon and Whiskey
Both bourbon and whiskey can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Neat: Sip it straight to appreciate its flavors.
- On the Rocks: Adding ice can mellow the flavors.
- With Water: A splash of water can open up the aromas and flavors.
- In Cocktails: Classics like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Whiskey Sour are great ways to enjoy both bourbon and whiskey.
The difference between bourbon and whiskey boils down to location, ingredients, and production methods. Bourbon’s sweeter profile makes it a standout in the whiskey world, but whiskey’s diversity means there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a bourbon lover or a whiskey connoisseur, the key is to explore and enjoy the spirit that suits your taste best. Cheers! 🥃