The Difference in Whiskey & Bourbon
The Process |
Bourbon |
Whiskey |
| Where it’s Produced | America | Global |
| Ingredient | 51% Corn | 51 percent of Rye, rye malt, malt, or wheat |
| Stored | New charred-oak barrels, only | Aged in wooden casks for anywhere from four to 50+ years, absorbing the oak and various other flavors along the way – depending on the type and variety of barrels used throughout the aging process. |
| Distilled | No more than 160 proof, barreled at 125
Distilled and cut only with water (traditionally, Kentucky limestone water) |
No more than 190 proof and filtered through sugar-maple-charcoal |
| Added flavoring, colors, and additives
|
Must not contain any | Can contain harmless coloring, flavoring, or blending materials up to 2 ½ percent. |
| Taste | The corn mash used in bourbon makes for a sweet and full-bodied flavor. | The rye mash in rye whiskey creates spicy tones and a drier taste. |
| Bottled Proof:
|
80 proof | 80 proof |
Next time you’re enjoying a sip of your favorite whiskey or bourbon, you’ll be able to amaze your friends. As always, enjoy responsibly.
