Whisky and bourbon are both types of alcoholic liquors made from fermented mashed grains. However, there are several key differences between the two that distinguish them from each other.
1. Grain Mixture: One of the primary differences between whisky and bourbon lies in the grain mixture used during the production process. Bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that consists of at least 51% corn. On the other hand, whisky can be made from a variety of grains such as barley, rye, corn, and wheat, with no specific requirement on the percentage of corn.
2. Geographic Origin: Bourbon has a strong association with the state of Kentucky in the United States. In fact, bourbon was traditionally made in Bourbon County, Kentucky, hence the name. Although bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States, the majority of it is still produced in Kentucky. Whisky, on the other hand, is a more general term that encompasses various styles and origins, including Scotch whisky from Scotland, Irish whiskey from Ireland, and Canadian whisky from Canada.
3. Aging Process: Both whisky and bourbon are aged in oak barrels, but there are differences in the aging requirements. Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels, which imparts distinct flavors and characteristics to the spirit. There are no specific requirements for the type of oak barrels used in whisky production, and the aging process can vary depending on the style and regulations of the specific whisky.
4. Flavor Profile: Due to the differences in grain mixture and aging process, whisky and bourbon have unique flavor profiles. Bourbon is known for its rich, sweet, and full-bodied taste, often characterized by flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Whisky, on the other hand, can have a wide range of flavors depending on the specific style and region of production. Scotch whisky, for example, is known for its smoky, peaty flavors, while Irish whiskey tends to be smoother and lighter.
5. Legal Definition: In the United States, bourbon has a legal definition that sets specific criteria for its production. To be considered bourbon, a whiskey must meet certain requirements, such as being made in the United States, containing at least 51% corn, and aging in new charred oak barrels. Whisky, on the other hand, does not have such strict legal definitions in the U.S., although regulations vary in different countries.
Whisky and bourbon are both types of alcoholic liquors made from fermented mashed grains, but they differ in terms of grain mixture, geographic origin, aging process, flavor profile, and legal definitions. These differences contribute to the unique characteristics and distinctions between the two spirits, allowing for a diverse range of options for whiskey enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.
