“Whiskey” is a term of endearment used to describe a variety of distilled alcohol drinks fermented from grain mash. It’s one of the most popular and diverse distilled drinks. Whether you enjoy a glass of Scottish whiskey, Irish whiskey, or the rich American bourbon, there’s no denying they each have their uniqueness. But the question still remains why people tend to confuse whiskey for bourbon, or vice versa.
In this text, we will discuss the differences between whiskey and bourbon. We will look deeper into the factors that separate them, considering their ingredients, production, geographical significance, and even taste.
What is Whiskey?
The general definition of whiskey describes it as any distilled alcoholic beverage made out of fermented grain mash. The beverage is produced differently all over the world, which results in different flavors and varieties. Common grains used for fermenting whiskey are barley, corn, rye, and wheat.
Types of Whiskey
Whiskey is separated in numerous categories based on region and taste. These include:
Scotch Whisky
As the name suggests, it is produced in Scotland. It is known for having malted barley with peat, which gives it a smokey flavor.
Irish Whiskey
Usually smoother and lighter than Scotch, Irish whiskey is typically triple-distilled for a smoother finish.
Canadian Whisky
Famous for being easy to drink, Canadian whisky is often smooth and easy to drink, often using rye as the primary grain.
Japanese Whisky
Like Scotch whisky, but with a more delicate and refined taste profile.
Although the recipe and methods differ for each variety, most whiskeys will have a base of fermented grain, distillation, wooden barrel aging, and blending.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a uniquely qualified type of American whiskey that has its own legal specifications. In the case of bourbon, there are rules set by the US government which must be followed in order to obtain the classification. Its distinct features come from the defined constituents, method of preparation, and process of aging.
Key Characteristics of Bourbon
- Made from at least 51% corn: The primary grain for bourbon must be corn, which gives the whiskey its sweetness.
- Distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alc/vol).
- Aged in new charred oak barrels: This requirement gives bourbons their rich caramel and vanilla notes.
- No additives or colorings: Contrary to most whiskeys, bourbons must not have any added flavorings or colors.
Bourbon is an American product. While it can be manufactured anywhere in the United States, it has been made for centuries in Kentucky.
Key Differences Between Bourbon and Whiskey
Now that we know the basics of whiskey and bourbon, let’s discuss the major differences that set them apart.
1. Geographic Distribution
Whiskey: Unlike bourbon which is limited to one country, whiskey is produced across the globe in places such as Scotland, Ireland, Canada, and Japan. Each country has different traditions when it comes to making whiskey.
Bourbon: Unlike bourbon, whiskey is made all over the world, but production of bourbon is strictly limited to the U.S., with Kentucky being the center of whiskey production.
2. Ingredients Used
Whiskey: Different types of grains including barley, corn, rye, and wheat can be used to make whiskey. The flavor of the whiskey is determined by the type of grain used.
Bourbon: It must contain at least 51% corn, which offers bourbon a sweet, fuller bodied taste. The remainder can consist of rye, wheat, or malted barley.
3. Production Process
Whiskey: The production processes differ by region. Take, for example, Scotch whisky. It features a malting stage in which barley is roasted over peat smoke, lending it a distinctive smokiness.
Bourbon: Like all American whiskeys, bourbon must be distilled to a maximum of 160 proof, or 80% alcohol, and aged in new charred oak barrels, giving it a rich flavor and an amber hue. Aging marks a crucial phase in bourbon production.
4. Aging Process
Whiskey: Whiskey aging timelines can be quite categorical – some whiskies are aged for a few years, while others (such as Scotch whisky) can age for decades.
Bourbon: Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels, allowing these distinct unique sweet vanilla caramel notes to come through. In contrast to other bourbon producers, to label their product “straight bourbon,” it ought to be aged more than two years, seems like a generous offer.
5. Flavor Profile
Whiskey: The varieties and types of whiskies are so many and popular that the flavors are highly divergent. Take, for instance, Scotch whisky, which is peaty and smoky. Irish whiskey is smoother and Canadian whisky tends to be lighter and sweeter.
Bourbon: Like other whiskeys, bourbon is made from fermented grain mash. However, it utilizes corn as its primary component, which makes bourbon sweeter and fuller than other whiskeys. Additionally, bourbon features rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak while also possessing hints of spicy rye.
What Separates Bourbon From Other Types of Whiskey?
Each type of whiskey has its own unique history, but bourbon stands out the most because of the strict rules surrounding its production. There’s an entire legislative framework in place that governs everything from crafting the spirit to regulating the procedures, which protects the quality of bourbon. Although whiskey can be made with a wide variety of grains, bourbon has to use corn, and it must age in new charred oak barrels. All these factors combined create a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other whiskey varieties.
The essence of bourbon is rooted in American soil, just like scotch is tied to Scotland. Bourbon is protected in the United States by laws that guarantee consistency and authenticity, safeguarding the spirit from being deemed low-quality by counterfeits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can Bourbon be Produced Outside the Bourbon Region?
No, it cannot. A whiskey can only be called a Bourbon if it is produced within the United States. Most bourbon is produced in Kentucky, although other states are allowed to produce it as long as they follow the strict guidelines.
2. How does the sweetness of Bourbon compare to whiskey?
Yes, due to its high corn content of being made from at least 51% corn, bourbon is generally sweeter than other forms of whiskey. This makes bourbon’s flavor profile smoother and fuller.
3. Is Bourbon considered a Whiskey?
Yes. Whiskey is bourbon’s umbrella term, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Whiskey goes through a different production and has different ingredients compared to the rest of brown liquor.
4. In a cocktail, can one use bourbon in place of whiskey?
Usually in most cocktails, one can use bourbon in place of whiskey. One thing to note is that since bourbon has a sweeter flavor, it may change the final taste of the drink. Cocktails such as Old Fashioned, and Mint Julep specifically ask for bourbon while some other whiskey cocktails may use bourbon instead.
5. How Should I Drink Bourbon?
People have different preferences when it comes to enjoying bourbon, including sipping it straight, on the rocks, or mixed in drinks. Some like to drink it neat with no mixers; others, enjoy a splash of water to help unlock the flavor. Bourbon lovers would also appreciate classic cocktails like the Bourbon Sour or Manhattan.
Conclusion
To wrap up, although whiskey and bourbon share the same family of distilled beverages, the differing factors of ingredients, production, and aging processes clearly highlight the distinction between the two. Knowing these differences will allow you to better appreciate these beverages, whether it’s smooth Irish whiskey or sweet, rich bourbon.
If you’re browsing a liquor store or deciding what drink to order at the bar, you’ll have the information needed to appreciate the differences each spirit has to offer.
