Rye Whiskey Vs. Bourbon Whiskey – Which One Should You Drink Depending on Your Taste?

If you’re new to the world of whiskey, then there’s a high chance that you’ve been wondering to yourself, “What is the difference between Rye and Bourbon?”

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There are many similarities between the two and, of course, a few noticeable differences as well. Leave it to us to help you understand the relationship between these two kindred spirits!

What is Rye?

Widely grown as a grain, Rye is turned into whiskey that a lot of us enjoy thoroughly.  While both the drinks are considerably different, they also have a bunch of similarities.  

American rye whiskey must contain at least 51% of Rye, while the remaining mixture can be a combination of different percentages of barley and corn. You could also find a rye whiskey that is made with 100% rye mash.

The most identifiable difference that can help understand what rye whiskey vs. bourbon lies in the taste.

When it’s all said and done, rye whiskey will taste like the harsher version of bourbon. You’ll feel a bit of spice and a grainy texture with every sip.

Types of Rye Whiskey

Most people in the States would probably rather have a glass of bourbon than one of rye whiskey. So, to pique your interest in the Rye, let’s talk about some of the most popular types that are available:

• American Rye

There’s a certain amount of consistency and quality in the way that American rye whiskey is made. It comes from the fact that American distilleries follow the method we mentioned.

There’s a debate between which one wins; rye whiskey vs. bourbon whiskey and American Rye vs. Canadian Rye.

You choose for yourself!

• Canadian Rye

What do you think would happen to a whiskey made with the bare minimum rules regulating it? That’s right! Chaos! Any whiskey that has even the smallest amount of Rye in it can be considered rye whiskey in Canada.

Canadians use Rye as a synonym for any whiskey made in Canada.

Now that we’ve sorted out the details of Rye, we can move on to the liquor that is often considered “better”.

What is Bourbon?

The mash used to make bourbon must contain at least 51% corn, and the remaining could be a mixture of varied quantities of Wheat, Rye, and malted barley. Plus, if whiskey needs to become bourbon, it should be stored in newly charred oak barrels for at least two years.

People should understand the taste profile that comes with bourbon. With every sip, you’re going to find hints of sweetness combined with a bit of smoky and woody flavor owing to the charred oak barrel it was stored in.

With bourbons, you may also delight in finding subtle accents of caramel and vanilla.

Types of Bourbon

To give you an all-round view of the kinds of bourbon you can try before settling on one, here are the three most common and prominent kinds of bourbon you should focus on:

• Traditional Bourbon

When discussing rye whiskey vs. bourbon, you’re going to find that traditional bourbon is the one that’s most widely available. Made with 15% barley, 15% rye, and 70% corn, brands like Jim Beam and Knob Creek are the most popular brands for traditional bourbon.

• Tennessee Whiskey

This name is not misleading whatsoever. Simply put, Tennessee whiskey is whiskey made in Tennessee. What’s unique about this liquor is that before it can be aged, it has to go through a charcoal filter, without which Tennessee whiskey cannot become its true self (and, according to the US Congress, cannot be called Tennessee whiskey).

• High-Rye

As the name implies, this name is for a bourbon bottle that has a higher rye content and gives you a better kick than other types of bourbon.

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Conclusion!

If there’s one thing you need to consider when choosing a drink for yourself or someone else, it is the taste profile they would prefer.

While some might differentiate between the drinks just by looking at their color, an amateur would be happy with the cheap stuff, so long as they get to drink it.

Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preferences.

But if you’re willing to learn about the real deal with the drinks and their appeal, this is your chance!

Have a look at the following table to grasp the differences of rye whiskey vs. bourbon whiskey.

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