What’s the Difference Between Bourbon and Whiskey?
If you’re new to the world of whiskey, you might be asking yourself what the difference is between bourbon and whiskey. While it’s true that all bourbon is whiskey, not all whiskey can be classified as bourbon. In this blog post, we’ll explore the nuances and differences between these two popular spirits.
What is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. There are several types of whiskey, including Scotch, Irish whiskey, and American whiskey. In order to be classified as whiskey, the spirit must be distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume and aged in oak barrels.
Some popular grains used to make whiskey include barley, corn, rye, and wheat. Depending on the type of whiskey, the mash bill (or proportion of grains used) can vary.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made from at least 51% corn. It must also be aged in new, charred oak barrels and distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume.
Many people associate bourbon with the state of Kentucky, where much of it is produced. However, bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States.
What are the Differences Between Bourbon and Whiskey?
The main difference between bourbon and other types of whiskey is the mash bill. In order to be classified as bourbon, the spirit must be made from at least 51% corn. Other types of whiskey, such as rye whiskey, will have a different mash bill that includes a higher proportion of rye.
Bourbon also has more stringent aging requirements than other types of whiskey. It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels, whereas other types of whiskey may be aged in used barrels. This gives bourbon a distinct flavor profile and color.
In terms of taste, bourbon is often described as having flavors of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It tends to be sweeter than other types of whiskey. Other types of whiskey, such as rye whiskey or Scotch, may have more spicy or smoky flavors.
How to Drink Bourbon and Whiskey
Whether you’re a bourbon or whiskey fan, there are endless ways to enjoy these spirits. Here are a few popular methods of consumption:
Neat: Drinking whiskey or bourbon neat (meaning without any mixers) is a popular way to enjoy the complexity of the spirit. You can sip it slowly, taking note of the different flavors and aromas.
On the rocks: If you prefer your whiskey or bourbon chilled, adding a few ice cubes is a great way to go. The ice will melt slowly, diluting the spirit slightly and opening up new flavors.
Cocktails: Bourbon and whiskey are both popular ingredients in cocktails. Classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan call for bourbon or rye whiskey, respectively.
Conclusion
In summary, the main difference between bourbon and whiskey is the mash bill. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, whereas other types of whiskey will have different mash bills. Bourbon is also aged in new, charred oak barrels, which gives it a distinct flavor profile and color.
At the end of the day, whether you prefer bourbon or whiskey comes down to personal preference. Try both and see which you like better!
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