Two popular options for aged spirits are rye whiskey and bourbon whiskey. So no matter which type you choose, rest assured that you’ll taste a high-quality spirit! Introduction to Rye and Bourbon No matter what type of whiskey you’re sipping on, rye and bourbon are distilled spirits that have gone through strict regulations under the Bourbon Whiskey & Spirits Act of 1964. Rye also has a higher alcohol content than bourbon-around 50-60%, compared to 40-50%. It tends to be spicier and more intense, while bourbon is smoother and sweeter. Rye whiskey is made with at least 51 percent rye grain mash, while bourbon is made with at least 51 percent corn grain mash. The biggest distinction between rye and bourbon is the grain used to make them. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just getting started with your whiskey journey, it can be hard to really understand the difference between these two types of whiskies. When it comes to whiskey, you often hear the terms “rye” and “bourbon” tossed around. Tasting Notes: Comparing the Flavors of Rye vs. ![]() ![]() Distillation Process for Rye and Bourbon.Some known bottles: Elijah Craig, Old Forester, Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and more. Bourbon usually takes on a sweeter flavour profile compared to the other whiskeys in this list, making it a nice one to have neat. This is another regionally-named whiskey - it has to be made in America to classify as bourbon. It was first produced in the state of Kentucky. Other ingredients in the list include malted barley and rye. (Image credit: Aries Wine & Spirits) What is bourbon?īourbon is the other Native American whiskey, and it has to be made using 51% or more corn grains. A popular brand of bourbon - Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon. Some known bottles: Wild Turkey Rye Whisky, Knob Creek Straight Rye Whiskey, WhistlePig Straight Rye Whiskey, and more. Rye whiskey tends to have a harsh flavour, hence it’s commonly used for cocktails. However, the same regulations don’t apply to Canadian rye whiskey, which can get confusing because some may not actually contain any rye. There’s no time limit mentioned for rye whiskey to be aged, unlike Scotch whisky. It also has to be aged in brand new American oak barrels. Regulations in the United States stipulate that rye whiskeys need to have at least 51% rye grain for it to be called that. Rye is one of the two native American whiskeys, with its name derived from the grain that is used. We’d tell you more about Scotch regions that include Highland, Lowland, Speyside, Islay, and more, but that’s a long story for another day. This makes it one of the most top-notch quality whiskies you can get out there. It is one of the most regulated spirits in the world, from how you make it to how you sell it. It can only be called Scotch if it’s made in Scotland – similar to the likes of Cognac and Champagne. Scotch whisky is, as its name suggests, whisky from Scotland. The United States also spells it as whiskey, while Canada and Japan adopt the ‘whisky’ spelling. For example, Scottish whisky (also known as Scotch whisky) is spelt without the E, while Irish whiskey has the E. Whiskies made in different countries are spelt differently. It’s not just an American-British spelling difference. ![]() What about whiskey? Isn’t it the same thing? These are down to its locations and grains used, which we will explore further below. You’ll come across whiskies named differently: scotch, rye, bourbon, and even the differently-spelt whiskey. Whisky is the umbrella term for this alcoholic beverage the same way brandy and sparkling wine are. Over the years, different distilleries have experimented with different wooden casks and finishes to give their whiskies a distinct and signature flavour profile. Whisky is also then aged in wooden casks, with the usual ones being charred white oak. You can also use malted grains for whisky, which is essentially the same grains except that they have been malted - that is, the grain has been allowed to germinate to a certain degree. (Photo credit: Sotheby’s)Īt its core, whisky is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash like barley, rye, wheat, and corn. ![]() But first, let’s start with the ultimate basic question of: What is whisky? The complete The Macallan Fine & Rare collection. We will also delve into the basics of what makes what, and why there are two different spellings for whisky. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll be identifying the differences between whisky, whiskey, scotch, rye, and bourbon. It’s also slightly intimidating to wade into the waters of this fanaticism, but with a little basic knowledge, we think you can survive it. They love their elixir and are not afraid to shoot down those who think otherwise. Like wine, whisky connoisseurs take great pride in knowing what goes into their drams. Take a seat, drink up, and find out the differences between whiskey, rye and bourbon.
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