Few drinks have as much charm and heritage as bourbon whiskey and Scotch whisky when it comes to indulging in the world of premium spirits.
For millennia, these two legendary spirits have captured the palates of fans all across the world, each with its own distinct features, production methods, and cultural significance.
But what distinguishes bourbon whiskey from Scotch whisky? Is it the ingredients, the distillation method, or the places from which they are sourced?
We will delve into the minute intricacies that distinguish bourbon whiskey and Scotch whisky, exposing the mysteries behind their varied flavors, histories, and the connoisseurs they attract in this post.
What Is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a black, distilled alcohol created from fermented barley mash or by distilling beer. The mash can be a blend of barley, rye, corn, and wheat. The whiskey is stored in old barrels, which are usually made of white oak. Whiskey is the most consumed and popular liquor in Ireland, the United States, Scotland, Canada, and Japan.
“Whiskey” and “whisky” are both valid spellings, but the spellings differ due to geographical differences. The former is used in the United States and Ireland because grain alcohols are referred to as whiskey. In the meantime, the latter is used in Canada and Scotland.
Whiskey is recognized for its oaky, gritty, vanilla, and caramel flavors. However, the degree of these flavors varies depending on the type and amount of components employed. This is why different types of whiskey, such as Scotch and Bourbon, are so distinctive.
Scotch, what exactly is it?
Scotch whisky is a variety of Whisky made in Scotland. It is made with more malted barley than other components and is matured in barrels for at least three years. Scotch, like rye, is known for its smoky, peppery flavor that lingers in the throat.
As a result, many individuals dislike Scotch because it can be “too much.” This beverage may be served straight up or on the ice. You can also add a few drops of water to enhance the flavors of the drink.
What is the definition of Bourbon?
In comparison to Scotch, Bourbon is mostly manufactured from corn. To be officially labeled Bourbon, a whiskey’s mash bill must contain 51% maize, it must be matured in a charred American oak barrel, it must be 40% ABV (80 proof), and it must be created in the United States.
This whiskey has a sweeter and smoother taste, making it a popular option among drinkers.
Difference Between Bourbon Whisky And Scotch
Bourbon:
- Bourbon whiskey is a type of whiskey.
- It is a sort of American whiskey that must be produced in the United States, with Kentucky producing the majority of it.
- Bourbon grain mixtures must have at least 51% corn.
- Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak casks in order to develop its signature flavor.
- While there are no particular aging standards for Bourbon, “straight” Bourbon must be matured for at least two years before being called as such.
- Bourbon has a sweet and rich flavor profile, with caramel, vanilla, and sometimes spice undertones.
Whiskey (sometimes spelled Whisky):
- The name “whiskey” refers to a variety of distilled alcoholic beverages made from fermented grains.
- Different nations have different spelling conventions (“whiskey” in the US and Ireland, “whisky” in Scotland and Canada).
- There are many different types of whiskey, such as Scotch, Bourbon, Irish whiskey, Canadian Whisky, and others.
- Each style has its own set of production methods, ingredients, and flavor characteristics, resulting in a wide variety of whiskeys.
Scotch:
- Scotch whisky, sometimes known as Scotch, is a type of whiskey that originated in Scotland.
- It must be created in Scotland and follow particular regulations established by Scottish law.
- Scotch whiskey is traditionally brewed from malted barley and matured in used wood barrels.
- Many Scotch whiskies have a unique smoky and often peaty flavor due to the use of peat smoke during the malting process.
- Scotch is further subdivided into single malt and blended Scotch.
Main Differences:
- The name “whiskey” refers to a wide range of distilled grain-based spirits.
- “Bourbon” is a type of American whiskey that must be created in the United States with a majority of grain and matured in new oak barrels.
- “Scotch” is a Scottish whisky recognized for its malted barley, unique peatiness, and diverse types such as single malt and blended Scotch.
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