Bourbon Whiskey vs Whiskey
Bourbon whiskey and whiskey seem to be two interchangeable phrases used to describe the same type of spirit. But while they may have similarities, there are distinct differences between bourbon whiskey and whiskey.
To start, bourbon whiskey can only be made in the United States, while whiskey can be made in any country. This detail is an important one, because it speaks to the origin and quality of the spirit itself. Much like the French can claim to make the best champagne, it can be said that the Americans have perfected whiskey-making—particularly when it comes to bourbon whiskey.
Bourbon whiskey must be made from a grain recipe that is at least 51-percent corn. It is aged in charred barrels and distilled in vats that are closer to the ground than other whiskey types, giving it a slightly smokier flavor. Whiskey, however, is made anywhere around the world and can come from a variety of grains such as wheat, barley, and corn. These grains don’t need to be the main focus of the whiskey, so manufacturers have more freedom to experiment with flavor profiles.
When it comes to taste, bourbon whiskey has a sweeter, savory flavor profile with toasted caramel notes, while whiskey is more smoky in comparison. Newly released whiskey often has a “green” flavor that comes from the wood or sense of unripe fruit that comes from rushing the aging process. Bourbon whiskey, on the other hand, relies heavily on careful distillation and barrel aging, and has a rich and deep flavor profile.
Bourbon whiskey producers also have to pay special attention to the quality of their ingredients and the process that goes into each batch of whiskey. The entire aging process has to be carefully documented, including things like the corn strain, the number of times the barrel has been used, and the length of time the whiskey has been aged in the barrel. The culmination of these details is something called the “angle of entry”—the angle at which the whiskey is poured into the barrel. Because of the rigorous standards, bourbon whiskey is often seen as holding a higher quality status than whiskey.
Bourbon Whiskey vs Whiskey: Production
Bourbon whiskey and whiskey differ in terms of production methods. To start, bourbon whiskey must be made in the United States in order for it to qualify as a bourbon. If the whiskey is made in another country, it simply cannot qualify as bourbon. Furthermore, the grain recipe must have at least 51-percent corn to qualify as bourbon. This grain mixture is used to create a specific flavor profile that is unique to bourbon.
Whiskey doesn’t necessarily have the same requirements, as it can be made in any country and from various grains. While whiskey can certainly contain corn, the ratio doesn’t have to be as strict as what is required for bourbon whiskey. This allows whiskey makers to experiment and explore more with flavor combinations.
Overall, the production process is more regulated when it comes to bourbon whiskey, which gives it an inherent quality factor. This is why small-batch craft bourbons, for example, can come with a hefty price tag—the quality and care-factor is very high.
Bourbon Whiskey vs Whiskey: Taste
When it comes to taste, bourbon whiskey is generally a little sweeter and has caramel-like notes, whereas whiskey has more of a smoky flavor. This is because the grain recipe used for whiskey is usually made up of a variety of grains, while bourbon must contain at least 51-percent corn and nothing else.
Whiskey can vary widely in flavor, as producers can experiment with different grains and flavors. If the whiskey is aged for shorter periods of time, it can have a “green” flavor that is reminiscent of unripe fruit. The flavor of whiskey can change drastically over time, as it matures in its barrel.
On the other hand, bourbon whiskey is known for its robust flavor profile that is created from careful aging and distillation. The barrel-aging process for bourbon is a long one—the whiskey must be kept in the wooden barrels for at least two years—allowing for a deep flavor that develops over time.
Bourbon Whiskey vs Whiskey: Quality
When comparing the quality of whiskey and bourbon whiskey, it is clear that bourbon whiskey holds up better for its controlled production methods and care factor. As mentioned before, the recipe for bourbon whiskey must have 51-percent corn, with the grain and other flavoring ingredients being of the highest quality.
The barrel-aging process for bourbon must also be carefully monitored, with whiskeys being kept in quality wooden barrels and undergoing a rigorous quality-control process. This attention to detail is what gives bourbon whiskey its unique flavor, and is why it often commands a higher price tag than whiskey.
In comparison, whiskey makers don’t need to be as strict with their recipes and processes. While they can achieve some similar flavor combos, the quality, and flavor-profile won’t be as consistent as in a bourbon whiskey.
Bourbon Whiskey vs Whiskey: Price
The price of whiskey and bourbon whiskey will also vary. Generally speaking, bourbon whiskey is more expensive when compared to whiskey as it must meet more specific production standards and has a higher quality.
Also, as whiskey ages and the flavors become more complex, the cost typically increases. This means that older whiskies, such as 10-year old, may be more expensive than whiskies that are only a few years old.
In comparison, the cost of whiskey will also depend on the grain recipe, but because the production methods are slightly more varied, the cost can fluctuate. In the end, your own palate should be the ultimate guide when it comes to choosing between bourbon whiskey or whiskey.
