The difference between straight bourbon and bourbon whiskey lies in their aging process and the requirements they must meet. To understand this, let's break down the components of each term.
Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is primarily made from corn. According to U.S. law, bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn. The remaining grains used in the mash bill can include barley, rye, and wheat. The mash is fermented, distilled, and then aged in new charred oak barrels.
On the other hand, straight bourbon is a specific classification within the bourbon whiskey category. To be labeled as straight bourbon, the distillate must meet certain criteria. First and foremost, it must be aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years. This aging process allows the bourbon to undergo chemical changes, interact with the wood, and develop its unique flavors and characteristics.
It's important to note that straight bourbon can be aged for longer than two years, and many premium bourbons are aged for much longer periods of time. The aging process contributes to the complexity and smoothness of the final product. However, the minimum requirement for straight bourbon is two years.
Another difference between straight bourbon and bourbon whiskey is the use of uncharred or used oak barrels. While bourbon whiskey must be aged in new charred oak barrels, there is one exception to this rule – corn whiskey. Corn whiskey is a type of whiskey that, like bourbon, is primarily made from corn. However, corn whiskey is aged in uncharred or used oak barrels instead of new charred oak barrels.
The use of new charred oak barrels in straight bourbon aging is significant. During the aging process, the bourbon oxidizes and penetrates the wood, extracting flavors and compounds from the barrel. The charred interior of the barrel also imparts additional flavors and helps to filter out impurities in the spirit.
The choice of barrels, whether new or used, can have a significant impact on the flavor profile of the final product. New charred oak barrels impart stronger and more pronounced oak flavors, while used barrels may have more subtle influences and allow other flavors to shine through.
Straight bourbon is a specific type of bourbon whiskey that has undergone a minimum of two years of aging in new charred oak barrels. This aging process is essential for the development of flavors and characteristics that distinguish straight bourbon from other types of bourbon whiskey. The use of new charred oak barrels is a key factor in shaping the final product, and the aging process allows the bourbon to interact with the wood and undergo chemical changes that enhance its taste and complexity.