Whisky vs bourbon is both types of spirits, but they’re also specific types of spirits. Both are variations of the spirit known as whiskey. Despite their similarities, there are some key differences between whisky and bourbon that set them apart from one another.
Similarly to many other spirits, whisky and bourbon have their roots in a fermented grain mash. But these two spirit varieties have slightly different characteristics and production processes. To learn more about the differences between these two types of spirits, keep reading.
What’s The Difference Between Bourbon vs Whisky?
While they have many similarities, they are different in key ways. The main difference between whisky and bourbon is their production process.
Whisky, in general, is made with a fermented grain mash that uses a type of yeast called “saccharomyces cerevisiae.” This is the same kind of yeast that’s used in beer, wine, and bread. Whisky is made with a grain mash that is then fermented, typically in a large stainless steel tank. The fermented grain mash is then distilled to separate it into various fractions. The distillation process determines what kind of whisky is produced.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is made with a fermented mash of corn and barley. It’s also aged at least two years in new, charred oak barrels. When it comes to production, bourbon follows a stricter set of rules. The fermentation process is longer, and there are stricter standards for aging. This is why bourbon is often considered a more refined spirit than whisky.
Key Differences: Bourbon vs Whisky
Here are some of the main differences between whisky and bourbon:
Which One Is Better? Bourbon vs Whisky
While there are many differences between whisky and bourbon, they’re both tasty spirits. That said, there are some whisky enthusiasts who might claim that whisky is better than bourbon. There are some whisky purists who believe that other whiskies are not true whiskies.
However, these people are in the minority. Whisky and bourbon are both types of whiskey. They both start with a fermented grain mash. And they’re both aged in new, charred oak barrels. But there are some key differences between the two spirits when it comes to production and ingredients. Whisky and Bourbon are both tasty spirits that deserve a place in your liquor cabinet.
The Distinction Between Bourbon vs Whiskey
There is some debate about the distinction between bourbon and whiskey. In general, bourbon is considered a type of whiskey, but not all whiskeys are bourbon. Bourbon must have a mash bill that consists of at least 51% of corn. Other types of whiskey can have mash bills that are a combination of different grains.
Bourbon must also be distilled to no less than 80 proof. The aging process for bourbon is also specific and differs from other types of whiskey. Bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels, while some whiskeys are aged in used barrels. This means the wood is burned to create char marks on the inside of the barrels. This charred wood adds a distinct flavour to bourbon, which is not present in other types of whiskey.
The Similarities Between Bourbon And Whisky
One of the most significant similarities between bourbon and whisky is their high alcohol content. Bourbon and whisky typically have an alcohol content of 40% or higher. Bourbon is usually a few percentage points above this, with an alcohol content of approximately 45%.
Both bourbon and whisky are also made primarily from grain. According to the regulations of the whisky industry, a whisky must also be produced in Scotland and aged in oak barrels for at least three years.
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