More often than not people confuse themselves when quizzed about bourbon, whisky and scotch and are unsure about if and how they are different. It is a very common picture where only bartenders or whiskey-lovers know about the difference between the three of them. Here we will be discussing the differences between the three of them so that the next time you are out with your friends or on a date then you have something unique to show off and impress them all.
So, breaking the notion here – “Bourbon, whiskey and scotch are different. Yes! You read that correctly. They are not the same.” Whiskey is the original form of spirit while bourbon and scotch are the types of whiskeys. All three of them are made from different types of grains like corn, rye etc. there are some exceptions in the way they are distilled as well.
First of all, let us understand what whiskey is.
The most original variation of spirit which is created by malting different type of grains like corn, rye etc. and then ageing them for years in wooden casks is called whiskey. There are strictly no flavours added for alcohol to be considered whiskey. The flavour of whiskey develops from the barrel in which it ages. Whiskey was the first to be developed while scotch and bourbon originated much later. Whiskey is considered to be one of the most strictly regulated liquors.
Depending on their country of origin, there are various different whiskies. There are numerous brands selling whiskies as well but the best one or the one that suits your taste buds can only be known after you explore them. Some really strong cocktails are formed by adding whiskey into the concoction. So, the next time you are looking for something flavourful and stingy for yourself you know that whiskey should be your go-to.
Having understood and learnt a bit about whiskey let us now understand what bourbon is.
Bourbon is a type of whiskey but there are some ground rules to be followed during the preparation process for a whiskey to be called bourbon. Listed below are these rules:
1. First of all, there should be at least 51% corn in the grain mash in the whiskey.
2. The corn mash must be distilled at 160 proof or less.
3. The mixture can’t contain any addictive substances.
4. The whiskey must be aged in a burnt and a new oak barrel to form bourbon.
Most people prefer to have bourbon neat but there are a few cocktails which taste amazing by adding bourbon to them. The most popular brands selling bourbon are many years old and have a legacy of their own. The US is the leading country in the production of bourbon and it has some of the most authentic brands producing bourbon.
Moving on to the last piece of the puzzle, let us now have a look at what is scotch.
Just like Champagne is to France, similarly Scotch is to Scotland. For this variation of whiskey to be called Scotch it has to be produced in Scotland. There are a set of laws followed in the production of scotch and it must be made from malt whiskey. Scotch has its own types and each of the types has distinct characteristics. Scotch is most generally preferred to be had neat and hence there are a few cocktails that can be prepared with it. Undoubtedly you can try and find some which taste wonderful by adding scotch.
Having learnt so much about whiskey, bourbon and scotch you are now in a good position to try different ways and dive deeper into which one appears to be the most interesting to you. At Whiskeyonline we have a range of wines and whiskeys which you can order as well as gifts to have at family gatherings or for your next hangout at your friend’s. These are definitely great additions to your Christmas parties now that the festive season is around the corner. Have some wow drinks and make merry! Happy Whiskey Hunting!