What is the difference between Bourbon and Whiskey?

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

Ever found yourself looking at a cocktail recipe and wondering, “What’s the difference between Bourbon and Whiskey?” Well, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions for home bartenders, and it’s easy to see why there’s so much confusion. 

Most people use these terms interchangeably without realizing it, but once you’ve read this article and learned more about whiskies, you’ll see that asking about the difference between Bourbon and Whiskey is like asking about the difference between White Wine and Chardonnay.

In this article, we’re going to clear up the mystery and give you the lowdown on what sets Bourbon apart from other types of Whiskey. Spoiler alert: all Bourbon is Whiskey, but not all Whiskey is Bourbon. 

What are the different types of Whiskey?

There are many types of Whiskey, and Bourbon is just one of them. There are essentially six different Whiskey types: Bourbon Whiskey, Rye Whiskey, Irish Whiskey, Scotch Whisky, Japanese Whisky, and Canadian Whisky.

You’ll notice that Whiskies from Japan, Canada, and Scotland are spelled without the ‘e’ (i.e., Whisky instead of Whiskey). The difference in spelling is said to originate from the 19th century when Irish distillers began adding an ‘e’ to “Whiskey” to distinguish their products from Scotch. Since Japanese Whisky is made similarly to Scotch Whisky, it also uses this spelling.

Whether it’s Rye, Barley, or Corn, the type of grain used significantly influences the flavor of the finished Whiskey. Additionally, the number of distillations and the strength at which the spirit is distilled during each process play a crucial role in shaping the final character of the Whiskey.

OK, so let’s take a quick look at the different types of Whiskey.

Bourbon Whiskey

Originating from the U.S., Bourbon is made primarily from Corn (at least 51%) and must be aged for at least two years in new charred oak barrels. It has a sweeter, fuller flavor with notes of Caramel, Vanilla, and Oak.

Fun fact: Tennessee Whiskey is actually a type of Bourbon, even though it doesn’t use the term “Bourbon.”

Irish Whiskey

Made in Ireland, Irish Whiskey must be aged in oak casks and aged for at least five years. It often has a clean, slightly sweet, and fruity profile. Under the term Irish Whiskey, there are four different styles, including Pot Still Irish Whiskey, the style for which Jameson is renowned.

Scottish Whisky

Scotch Whisky is made in Scotland, and within the category of ‘Scotch,’ there are five different types, including Scotch Malt Whisky, Single Malt, and Blended.

Only Whisky from Scotland can be called Scotch, much like Champagne can only be called Champagne if it is made in a specific area of France and follows specific regulations.

Scotch is usually aged for at least three years and has a robust, smoky, and peaty flavor, especially in Single Malts. Scottish Whisky is spelled without an ‘e,’ unlike American and Irish Whiskey.

Canadian Whisky

Known for its smoothness, Canadian Whisky is often made from a blend of grains, including Corn, Rye, Barley and Wheat. It’s typically lighter and smoother than other Whiskies, with a subtle sweetness and mild flavor. Canadian Whisky must be matured for at least three years.

Rye Whiskey

Predominantly made in the U.S. and Canada, Rye Whiskey must contain at least 51% Rye grain and aged for at least two years in new charred oak barrels. It has a spicier, more robust flavor compared to Bourbon, with notes of Pepper and Fruit. Canadian Whisky is also spelled without an ‘e’. 

Japanese Whisky

Crafted in Japan, Japanese Whisky draws inspiration from Scotch Whisky, often using similar production methods. It’s typically made from malted barley and aged in oak barrels, including unique Japanese Mizunara oak.

Japanese Whisky is known for its delicate, refined, and complex flavors, with notes of honey, floral, and subtle smoke. Like the Canadian and Scottish varieties, Japanese Whisky is spelled without the ‘e’.

OK, so now that we’ve explored the different types of Whiskey, you might be wondering if there is any difference in taste and how it will affect your drink.

Let’s say you want to make a Whiskey Sour. Would there be a difference if you used Irish Whiskey instead of Rye Whiskey, and would it really matter to the end result? 

“Traditionally, and according to old drink books, Whiskey Sours are made with Irish Whiskey,” says Michael Bergström, Drinks Expert from Bartenders’ Choice Awards. “These days, Bourbon Whiskey is the most common choice, but any Whiskey will make a great sour, so choose according to personal preference,” he adds. 

For our Manhattan recipe, we use a Rye Whiskey. Would it be “wrong” to use another type of Whiskey? Not at all. Some people prefer Bourbon for its smooth, sweet notes, while Rye Whiskey offers a spicier kick.

At the end of the day, that’s what it’s about – personal preference. There’s no right or wrong – it’s your drink.

Switching up different Whiskey types in your cocktails can completely transform the flavor profile. So, go ahead, experiment. Mix it up and see which Whiskey works best for you.