What’s the Difference between Bourbon and Whiskey?
If you’re a fan of whiskey, you may have heard the term “bourbon” thrown around interchangeably with whiskey. However, they are not the same thing. So, what exactly is the difference between bourbon and whiskey? In this blog post, we’ll break down the key differences between the two.
What is Whiskey?
First, let’s define what whiskey is. Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The most common grains used to make whiskey are barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The mash is then aged in wooden casks, typically made of oak, to enhance its flavor and color.
There are several types of whiskey, each with its own unique characteristics. These include:
1. Scotch Whiskey: Made in Scotland, this whiskey is made from malted barley. It is typically aged for at least three years.
2. Irish Whiskey: Made in Ireland, this whiskey is made from a blend of malted and unmalted barley. It is typically aged for at least three years.
3. American Whiskey: Made in the United States, this whiskey is made from a blend of grain mash. It is typically aged for at least two years.
4. Canadian Whiskey: Made in Canada, this whiskey is made from corn, rye, barley, and wheat. It is typically aged for at least three years.
5. Japanese Whiskey: Made in Japan, this whiskey is made from a blend of malted and unmalted barley. It is typically aged for at least three years.
What is Bourbon?
Now that we’ve defined what whiskey is, let’s dive into what makes bourbon different. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made predominantly from corn (at least 51%) and aged in charred oak barrels. The rest of the mash can be made up of other grains such as wheat or rye.
In order to be considered a bourbon, the whiskey must meet several criteria:
1. It must be made in the United States.
2. It must be made from at least 51% corn.
3. It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
4. It must be distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume.
5. It must be bottled at no less than 40% alcohol by volume.
What are the Key Differences between Bourbon and Whiskey?
Now that we know what bourbon and whiskey are, let’s break down the key differences between the two.
1. Mash
The main difference between bourbon and other types of whiskey is the mash. While all whiskeys are made from fermented grain mash, bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn.
2. Aging Process
Another key difference between bourbon and other types of whiskey is the aging process. Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. This gives the whiskey its distinctive flavor and color.
3. Location
While all types of whiskey can be made anywhere in the world, bourbon must be made in the United States. In addition, there are several laws and regulations in place that govern how bourbon can be made.
4. Flavor
While the flavor of bourbon can vary depending on the specific brand and aging process, bourbon is generally sweeter than other types of whiskey. This is because of the high percentage of corn used in the mash.
5. Cost
Bourbon can be more expensive than other types of whiskey due to the aging process and the use of new, charred oak barrels. However, there are many affordable options available, making bourbon accessible to a wide range of consumers.
How to Enjoy Bourbon
Now that we’ve covered the key differences between bourbon and other types of whiskey, let’s talk about how to enjoy bourbon.
1. Neat
One of the best ways to enjoy bourbon is to drink it neat. This means sipping it at room temperature without any additions. This allows you to fully appreciate the flavor and complexity of the whiskey.
2. On the Rocks
If you prefer your whiskey chilled, you can enjoy bourbon on the rocks. This means adding a few ice cubes to your glass to chill the whiskey. However, be aware that the ice can dilute the whiskey and alter its flavor.
3. With Water
If you find that bourbon is too strong for your taste, you can add a small amount of water to your glass. This can help to mellow out the flavors and make the whiskey more enjoyable for you.
4. In Cocktails
Bourbon is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan. However, when using bourbon in cocktails, it’s important to choose a high-quality bourbon that will complement the other ingredients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while bourbon is a type of whiskey, it has some key differences that set it apart. Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, aged in new, charred oak barrels, and made in the United States. While all types of whiskey are delicious and complex, bourbon has its own unique flavor profile that makes it a favorite among many whiskey lovers.
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