Simple Differences Between Bourbon & Whiskey

Distinguishing Bourbon from Whiskey can sometimes be difficult when you are browsing throughout the aisles at the liquor store. However, there are a few simple differences between the two that can help you identify what you are looking for. Bourbon will always be aged in charred, new oak barrels and aged for at least two years. You can also tell a Bourbon by its mash bill. The mixture of grains must be at least 51% corn, which helps give bourbon its sweeter flavor profile. Whiskey, on the other hand, is usually aged in used bourbon barrels, or in other non-bourbon options like rum, port, or wine to bring out unique flavor profiles and different varieties. Mash bill for this liquor must be made of fermented grain to be considered an American Whiskey. Although similar in look, Bourbon tends to be the more distinguished option, as it has certain standards for distilling, whereas Whiskey is more of the free-spirited, no strict rules, kind of option.