Are bourbon and Scotch the same? No. Both are whisky, but bourbon is American whiskey made mainly from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, while Scotch is whisky made in Scotland, usually from malted barley, and aged in used casks for at least three years. That difference in grain, barrels and place gives bourbon its sweet vanilla style and Scotch its malty, fruity or smoky character.
Here is a simple guide to bourbon vs Scotch vs whisky, and how to choose between them.
Whisky, Whiskey, Bourbon and Scotch Explained
- Whisky is the umbrella term: a spirit distilled from fermented grain and aged in wooden casks.
- Bourbon is a type of American whiskey with strict legal rules.
- Scotch is whisky made and matured in Scotland under Scotch whisky regulations.
So all bourbon is whiskey and all Scotch is whisky, but bourbon and Scotch are not the same. The spelling is simply tradition: Scotland, Japan and Canada usually write whisky, while Ireland and the USA usually write whiskey.
Bourbon vs Scotch at a Glance
| Bourbon | Scotch | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it is made | United States, mostly Kentucky | Scotland only |
| Main grain | At least 51% corn | Malted barley (malt whisky) or other grains (grain whisky) |
| Barrels | Must be new, charred oak | Usually used casks, such as ex-bourbon or ex-sherry |
| Minimum age | No minimum (straight bourbon: 2 years) | 3 years |
| Typical flavour | Sweet, vanilla, caramel, baking spice | Malty, fruity, honeyed, sometimes smoky |
| Spelling | Whiskey | Whisky |
What Makes Bourbon Bourbon?
To be called bourbon, American whiskey must be made in the United States from a grain mix of at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 80% ABV, aged in new charred oak containers and bottled at 40% ABV or more, with nothing added except water. New charred oak gives bourbon its signature sweetness, deep colour and notes of vanilla, toffee and spice.
Popular bourbons include Buffalo Trace, Maker's Mark and Woodford Reserve. Jack Daniel's is Tennessee whiskey, made in a very similar way but filtered through maple charcoal before ageing. Explore more in What Is American Whiskey?
What Makes Scotch Scotch?
Scotch must be distilled and matured in Scotland, in oak casks, for at least three years. The main styles are single malt, blended malt, single grain and blended Scotch. Because most Scotch is aged in casks that previously held bourbon or sherry, the spirit picks up gentler oak and more fruit, with peat smoke in some regions such as Islay.
Try single malt Scotch such as Glenfiddich 12 or Lagavulin 16, or a classic blend like Johnnie Walker. New to malts? Read What Is Single Malt Whisky?
Which Is Smoother: Bourbon or Scotch?
Many new whisky drinkers find bourbon easier to start with because of its sweetness. Smooth Scotch options include Speyside single malts and blended Scotch. Peated Islay Scotch is the boldest style, so try it once you know you enjoy whisky.
Bourbon or Scotch for Cocktails?
Bourbon is the classic choice for an Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour and Mint Julep. Scotch shines in a Penicillin, Rob Roy or a simple highball with soda. See our whisky cocktails guide for recipes.
Buy Bourbon and Scotch Online in NZ
Shop our full bourbon, American whiskey and Scotch whisky ranges. Many of our whiskies are direct imported and sold at wholesale prices. We deliver throughout New Zealand. Delivery is included on orders over $250. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol. See our shipping and refund policy.
FAQs
Are bourbon and Scotch the same?
No. Both are whisky, but bourbon is American and made mainly from corn in new charred barrels, while Scotch is made in Scotland, usually from malted barley, in used casks.
Is all bourbon from Kentucky?
No. Most bourbon is made in Kentucky, but bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States.
Is Jack Daniel's a bourbon?
Jack Daniel's is a Tennessee whiskey. It meets most bourbon rules but is filtered through sugar maple charcoal before ageing, known as the Lincoln County Process.
Why is it spelled whisky and whiskey?
Scotland, Japan and Canada usually use whisky, while Ireland and the USA usually use whiskey. Both refer to the same type of spirit.
Please drink responsibly. You must be 18 or over to purchase alcohol in New Zealand.