Whiskey and bourbon are so different and the same at the same time, sometimes it’s confusing. How to distinguish them, and are they different, or are they the same thing? When choosing, many questions arise, first of all, among amateurs. Collectors and those who often enjoy their taste and aroma will naturally distinguish one from the other, but to the untrained eye such a mission may seem impossible. So which is which?

Bourbon is also called American whiskey - this is its simplified version or the most interesting variety. In fact, the drink was invented in America and later spread throughout the world. Most whiskey in America is called bourbon, although not all are. At the same time, this is often called whiskey abroad, although this is more likely a variety of it. It was originally a poor man's drink, but as production technology improved, its popularity increased to the point that today it is considered America's national spirit.

The classic recipe was invented at the end of the 18th century. The basis for its production is corn. The drink is aged in barrels that are scorched from the inside. Firing them is of great importance. This technology was invented by Elijah Craig. A drink aged in such a barrel acquires unique taste and the aroma is why it is highly valued.

Its history begins from the end of the 15th – beginning of the 16th centuries. And the birthplace and place of the first invention can be considered Ireland and Scotland. There are two countries, as they still argue among themselves where the first drink was produced. It is probably impossible to get to the bottom of it today, which is why it refers specifically to these two countries. At first it was used exclusively in medicinal purposes, it was prescribed to patients by monks and doctors. Later, the recipe reached the villages, where they began to gradually improve it. And only after a certain time it received its recognition throughout the world, not only among the middle class, but mainly among gourmets.

Whiskey is made all over the world. The most famous trade marks concentrated in Ireland, Scotland, Canada and the USA. Depending on the subspecies, it is made from barley, rye, wheat or corn. Then it necessarily goes through several stages of production.

The drink may differ in strength, which directly depends on the variety and place of production. The same goes for sugar. Sometimes it is not added to whiskey at all, and sometimes a little is added.

Regarding additives and flavorings, the most popular manufacturers make their products without them, and cheaper brands may add cinnamon, caramel or something like that to get some new shade. At the same time, they try not to advertise this fact, although this is always indicated on the label.

What common?

Production, brands, time of invention, method of consumption, taste, color and much more can link alcohol that is completely different at first glance. This case is no exception.

• Bourbon is essentially whiskey.
• Their consumption culture is quite similar, how to taste, hold a glass, check the aroma, take a sip and even have a snack - everything is approximately the same with only small, insignificant differences.
• This type of alcohol is drunk from identical glasses made of glass or crystal with a thick bottom or two-handled pewter cups, which are the traditional container for drinking whiskey, bourbon or scotch.
• 200 years ago, whiskey was the drink of the poor, and the elite did not even try it. Bourbon was also originally a delicacy for the poor. Today, both of these types of alcohol are expensive.
• Taste and aroma. For professionals and collectors, the taste of drinks is completely different. But for simple lovers the difference will be barely noticeable. All the subtleties can be felt only with a full study of drinks, and this difficult science is not given to everyone.

Differences

1. Bourbon is a native American drink. They don't make it abroad. But whiskey can be made anywhere.
2. Ingredients. First of all, they differ in composition. While bourbon is made exclusively from corn, whiskey is made from a variety of grains.
3. The aging barrels are also different. In the case of bourbon, new oak, burned on the inside, is used, and whiskey is kept in exclusively old oak barrels from Madeira, Calvados, sherry, cognac and other types of alcohol.
4. The whiskey production process is much more complex. There is a longer exposure and many different processes. Bourbon is easier to make, but the taste practically does not suffer from this. Due to the fact that corn is used, the final product is soft, delicate taste and a rich, pleasant aroma.
5. The holding time is also different. Bourbon is aged for at least 2 years. The whiskey is aged for three years in Scotland, five in Ireland and six in Canada.
6. Name. If we talk about labels, then there is a certain rule. Only American producers who make "bourbon" can write "bourbon" on the label. classic drink. Whiskey is always labeled on bottles as “Whiskey” or “Whisky” depending on the place of production.
7. Color, taste and aroma. Due to the fact that bourbon is aged in burnt barrels, it has more dark color. As for the taste, it is richer with sweetish notes. But whiskey is more bitter, lighter and has a unique smoky aroma.
8. Whiskey strength varies from 32 to 50%. In the case of bourbon, the figure is more accurate - 40-52%.
9. Supplements Bourbon is a pure drink without impurities, and caramel and seasonings can be added to whiskey.

In conclusion, it should be said that bourbon and whiskey are different drinks, although related, but the peculiarity and high class there is no doubt. Their prices are always high, and their quality is unsurpassed.

One of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the USA is bourbon, without which not a single feast or major event is complete. Alcohol has a complex history of origin, the study of which makes it possible to understand how the two products differ from each other. For many this is the same drink, but it exists a big difference between them.

What is bourbon

Natural strong men's drink Made in several states of America. It is made from strictly limited varieties of corn. Everyone in the USA knows what bourbon is. After all, this national product, which is manufactured using similar technology as .

The most popular brands of the American drink are Wild Tyrkey, Heaven Hill, and Four Roses. They are in great demand all over the world and are among the producers of elite alcohol.

The product received its name not in honor of the royal family, but due to the fact that its first production was launched in Bourbon County, Kentucky. Officially, the start of production dates back to 1783.

It is widely believed that the drink was first created by a local pastor who infused a corn mixture in a barrel that was charred from the inside. He noticed that the aged alcohol had an unusual and quite pleasant taste, which gave it softness and left a pleasant aftertaste.

But there is a second version of the origin of bourbon. Its supporters insist that Dr. James Crow, through trial and experimentation, invented original technology making whiskey. He replaced the main raw materials, and now the drink began to be made from corn.

What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey

Both products have a fairly significant difference from each other, despite the fact that their names are always placed next to each other and imply that they are the same drink.

In order to understand the difference between bourbon and whiskey, it is worth learning about their main differences:

1. Alcohol is made from various raw materials. Whiskey was originally invented in Scotland and, according to ancient traditions, was prepared from barley, rye and wheat. In bourbon main ingredient- corn. The American drink contains about 55% of it, and the rest is rye and barley. The very first and most important difference is different composition products.
2. In second place is the difference between whiskey and bourbon based on the principle of preparation. The technology for creating the Scottish drink is based on the processing of barley. Cereals are initially soaked, then sprouted and dried. In the next step, the grains are hulled and broken down to produce sugar. To make bourbon, the grains are initially ground and boiled. The wort is sugared various types. After which yeast is added and the fermentation process begins. Finally, the liquid is distilled and passed through a carbon filter.
3. The difference between whiskey and bourbon is that the first product is aged in barrels from drinks such as Madeira, or. And American alcohol is infused exclusively in containers that are burned from the inside.
4. Whiskey can be produced different countries. Labels often indicate Whiskey's affiliation with a particular country. There is a place on the world market not only for Scottish products, but also for Irish, Asian and Canadian ones. With bourbon things are a little different. The United States has established clear restrictions at the legislative level. Only those products that were produced in America and using traditional technology can be called bourbon.
5. Taste is also the difference between these types of alcohol. American Whiskey has a soft sweetish taste, and Scottish drink pronounced bitter notes with a woody aroma are noted.

Characteristics of the drink: composition, color, strength

Bourbon is darker and richer in color than whiskey. Long-term storage liquid in oak barrels, charred from the inside, gives the product such a pronounced amber hue. The shelf life of this type of drink is strictly regulated by law.

Natural or, as Americans also call it, pure Bourbon must be infused for at least 2 years. Barrels for storage are taken new and treated with fire from the inside using a special technology.

The product must undergo distillation at 80% vol., no more than that. The average alcohol content in a drink is from 40 to 62.5%.

According to the rules in glass bottles 40° bourbon is poured. Barrels store more than strong species, the alcohol content of which exceeds 45%. The maximum level is within 62.5%.

It is important that the product does not contain harmful substances and synthetic flavor enhancers. It is prohibited to use dyes and other impurities to improve the bouquet. Contains natural American alcohol must contain at least 51% corn.

Elite and expensive drinks This species is kept for an average of 4-5 years per year. oak barrels. This gives the product a pronounced tart woody taste and unusual aroma.

Types of bourbon

There are many types of such strong and elite drink, like Bourbon. The following brands are considered the most popular and in demand on the world market:

1. Jack Daniels. Contains about 80% corn. The remaining percentage goes to barley and rye grain. Withstand Jack Daniels in new wooden barrels and stored for at least 5 years.
2. Honey is considered unusual and original look. It contains honey. Popularized by Jim Beam Honey or Jack Daniel's Honey.
3. Diluted Bourbon. The bouquet has a rare and unusual woody taste and aroma. The strength is about 38%.
4. Straight Bourbon is a young “clean” variety that does not contain dyes or other impurities. Its aging is at least 2 years.
5. Blended - mixed bourbon. The blended variety includes several types of alcohol.
6. Blended Bourbon Whiskey - made by mixing Straight bourbon with other types of bourbon. The main condition is that most of the drink is “pure” variety.
7. American Blended Whiskey American bourbon and rye whiskey.
8. Barrel Proof is the strongest, undiluted bourbon.

How to drink correctly

The bourbon is a great digestif, a feature that sums up the evening. In the USA, this drink is served in thin glass containers, in which the color scheme of the drink is clearly visible, indicating its age. Bourbon is poured from bottles into straight glasses with a thick bottom (tumbler or rocks glass), filling them no more than halfway.

If the product has been aged according to the technology for at least 4 years, then drink alcohol in pure form. Young Bourbon is best served with crushed ice. This will soften its harsh taste.

According to the rules, before drinking, you should hold the glass of alcohol in your hands for a while to warm it up slightly. After which they inhale the heady aroma. The bouquet is filled with notes of dark chocolate, raisins, caramel, wood and even tobacco. Then take a small sip. The liquid is held in the mouth for a second. After taking a sip, it is recommended to exhale air simultaneously through the nose and mouth.

There are no strict restrictions regarding snacks. Alcohol is combined with meat, cheese and fruit dishes. In the USA, they most often snack on grapes or chocolate, in England - cheese, and in the post-Soviet space - carefully fried pieces of pork and beef.

Many people believe that Bourbon is a whiskey of American origin, which classic version It should be consumed without a snack, but with a good cigar.

It’s difficult to immediately answer how bourbon differs from whiskey. Bourbon is very similar to whiskey, but some characteristic features allow it to be classified as its own alcoholic subgroup.

Differences between bourbon and whiskey

The main ingredient in the production of bourbon is corn (at least 51%). made from barley, rye and wheat. Bourbon was initially considered a low-end drink. Over time, the skill of the manufacturing families increased, which made it possible not only to improve the quality of the product, but also to turn it into national pride And business card USA in the global alcohol market.

Bourbon production territory is the USA, while whiskey has a more extensive production geography:

• Whiskey – Ireland;
• Whiskey or scotch – Scotland;
• Canadian whiskey - Canada;

You can also meet representatives from Asian countries.

Bourbon is a drink produced in the USA with respect traditional technologies(the clause is prescribed in US law and has come into force since 1964).

Bourbon production technologies and whiskey have slight differences and, therefore, it is definitely impossible to say that the drinks are the same. Also, each product has its own characteristics. When making bourbon, the raw materials are not malted. Corn grain crushed in mills and boiled. The prepared wort is diluted with barley (or other) malt. Fermentation occurs with the yeast of the previous starter, followed by the distillation process. When producing whiskey, the malting process is used (the grain is soaked - sprouted - dried - hulled). This is necessary for the formation of enzymes that are able to naturally release sugar from starch.

The aging container is charred oak barrels. B Urbon is aged exclusively in new oak barrels, charred from the inside. The barrels are made by skilled craftsmen in compliance with the traditions of their ancestors, without the use of glue or nails. The minimum age of the drink is 2 years (often 4 or more). To settle whiskey, reusable barrels of sherry, Madeira, cognac, and Calvados are used. Minimum whiskey age:

• 6 years – Canadian;
• 5 years – Irish;
• 3 years – Scottish.

Naturally, drinks have different organoleptic indicators. The benefit of corn in the composition intensifies the flavor of the bourbon and gives it a hint of sweetness. A distinctive feature of whiskey coming from Ireland is a bitterish tint, while whiskey from Scotland has a smoky aroma. Storage in oak barrels achieves a dark amber or deep golden color. The difference between whiskey and bourbon is its lighter shade.

Pour bourbon into glass containers. Alcohol content – ​​not less than 40%.

Popular well-known bourbon producers:

• Woodford Reserve;
• Jim Beam;
• Town Branch.

The production area for these brands is Kentucky.

An equally famous bourbon producing state is Tennessee. The drink originally from this area is called Tennessee whiskey, a prominent representative of “bourbon”. It is about this drink that sometimes disputes arise: is it bourbon or whiskey. The bottle is labeled "Tennessee Whiskey" and the product itself contains 80% corn (12% and 8% barley and rye, respectively) and is aged in new, burnt-out barrels. That is, the preparation process corresponds to traditional bourbon, and only one additional process (filtration when bottling into glass containers through charcoal) highlights it in separate species whiskey from Tennessee. Based on this, we can say that Jack Daniel’s is more of a bourbon.

Paying attention to distinctive features drinks, the difference between whiskey and bourbon becomes clear. It is worth noting their similarities - the inherent sweetness of the taste and a long aftertaste giving pleasure with spices and fruits. There are also similarities in the culture of use.

Bourbon and whiskey culture

Each drink has its own history and traditions, the same applies to the culture of consumption. The drinks bourbon and whiskey can be called brothers, individual descendants of the same family. Both products are unique, and it is simply necessary to drink them correctly, observing all the rules, customs and traditions. This is the only way to truly appreciate original taste alcohol and enjoy their subtle aroma.

Analysis of the popularity and reputation of alcohol market products allows us to position bourbon and whiskey as noble drinks.

Basics correct use:

1. It is considered bad form to pour real high-quality alcohol straight from the bottle. They fill a special absolutely transparent glass container with very thin walls. This will allow you to fully appreciate the play of color. Also, such a procedure will help assess the quality and age of the product.
2. Drink american whiskey taken from thick-walled glasses with a dense bottom. Older and traditional version drinking bourbon indicates glasses (made of pure tin) with two handles, such utensils are called quaich. First you need to warm the container in your palm. Then shake gently, this will “awaken” the taste of the liquid, making it brighter and more intense.
3. Use slowly. Savoring a small amount of liquid on the tongue, and at the same time inhaling the aroma, you can appreciate the work of professionals.
4. You can add a few ice cubes to the glass. Melt water can decompose the aroma into several parts.
5. Lovers low alcohol drink can treat themselves to a bourbon or whiskey based cocktail by adding juice or other liquid (not containing alcohol) to the main ingredient. But in this case it will be quite difficult to fully evaluate the drink. Therefore, it is advisable to use a young and inexpensive product for cocktails.

There is certainly a difference between whiskey and bourbon. But what both products have in common is that the point of proper use is to enjoy the taste and aroma of every sip of liquid. These drinks are fuss-free.

A cozy and calm atmosphere, the amber liquid spreads warmth throughout the body, the aroma of spices and oak hovers in the room - all this suggests that the time has come to evaluate the result of the work of famous winemakers.

Bourbon is often called American whiskey, although this is not entirely true. The recipe for these drinks is similar, but the production of bourbon is based exclusively on American traditions distillation. Although they are, in fact, close relatives, the difference between the drinks is significant. What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?

Bourbon: history of the name

Bourbon appeared in the United States at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. According to one version, the county in southern Kentucky, where settlers started producing whiskey, as well as the drink itself, were named after the famous family of French aristocrats. Another legend says that this name is due to the street of the same name in New Orleans, where he was especially revered.

Raw materials for production

The raw material basis for distilling bourbon is corn, which should be at least 51% of the volume of raw materials. Cereals can also be used: rye, barley, wheat, but the “queen of the fields” should be at least half. Whiskey is an exclusively grain drink. Depending on the variety, in different ratios Rye, wheat and barley are used for its production.

Manufacturing technology

To make classic whiskey, malting is required - germination, drying and hulling of grains. This is done to release enzymes and break down starch into sugar. Classic whiskey needs to be filtered before bottling. The technology for producing bourbon is different: the raw materials are crushed, soaked and boiled. It is then saccharified with malt, fermented with yeast and distilled.

There is a difference in insistence. For bourbon, only new American oak barrels are used, which must be charred inside. The aging period of the drink is at least two, but, as a rule, from four years.

The requirements for whiskey barrels are somewhat different: previously used oak barrels are used for infusion - preferably from sherry, cognac, Madeira, Calvados or the same bourbon. The duration of aging of whiskey depends on the variety: Scottish - from 3 years, Irish - on average 5 years, Canadian - 6 years.

Place of manufacture

There are no restrictions for traditional whiskey: it is produced in Scotland, Ireland, Canada and some Asian countries. On the labels scotch whiskey written "Whisky" or "Scotch", Irish - "Whiskey". Drinks from other countries are labeled indicating the geographical place of manufacture (“Canadian whisky”). As for bourbon, everything is much stricter here. According to the law adopted in the USA in 1964, it is called alcohol produced only in the country using strictly traditional technology.

Taste, color and smell

Complex manufacturing technology and the possibility of experimentation provide a wide range of taste and aroma of whiskey. Irish whiskey can be recognized by the bitter notes of the drink, while scotch tape characterized by a smoky aroma.

Bourbon and whiskey are often used interchangeably, however, experts know that this different drinks. Each of them has not only its own characteristics, but also a history of origin. To distinguish alcoholic drink bourbon is different from something similar - whiskey - you need to study all the intricacies and rules for making strong alcohol.

First of all, let's pay attention to the composition. The main ingredient of the first is corn. Its amount should be at least 50% of the ingredients used.

Bourbon has a bright amber color. The strength of the drink is often 43%, however, preparation rules allow a range from 40 to 51%.

Now let’s look at why the question “what is the difference between bourbon and whiskey” does not have a clear answer. The fact is that bourbon is a whiskey originally from America. It differs in manufacturing technology, but remains one of the subspecies of a large group.

Differences in production

In the production of the American drink it is used special technology. Each stage of production has its own rules.

Manufacturing begins with processing of raw materials. The corn grain goes through a grinding process, after which it is parboiled. The resulting material is seasoned with malt. The most commonly used is barley.

The difference in the production of whiskey is that when making the second, the grain is first malted. To do this, soaked cereals are sprouted, then dried and peeled.

It is customary to use only new oak barrels to infuse bourbon.. The containers are pre-fired inside. Craftsmen who make barrels use ancient traditions without using glue or nails.

Scotch tape, on the contrary, is stored in already “tested” containers. To infuse it, use barrels of sherry, Calvados or cognac. Barrels in which Madeira was infused are also suitable.

There is also a significant difference between the drinks in question in age. The American alcoholic drink is aged for at least two years, and often all four.

The whiskey ages longer. Depending on the type of drink, the following scheme is applied:

• - the youngest. His “age” is 3 years;
• Irish varieties of the drink are a little older. It is customary to age such alcohol for 5 years;
• The most respected whiskey is Canadian. Its endurance is 6 years.

Cooking bourbon in oak barrels gives the drink a golden color. Whiskey traditionally has lighter tones.

Drinks have different tastes. Bourbon is made from corn, so it has a sweetish note. Whiskey is more bitter. There are also differences depending on the type of whiskey. For example, Scotch smells like smoke, while Irish has a stronger bitterness.

Title of the present

The question of what is true bourbon has been the subject of much debate for many years. Some experts argue that any drink that is made using the appropriate technology has the right to bear the title of true.

Others believe that not only the composition and technology are important, but also the territorial feature. According to this theory, only drinks made in a certain region of America can be called bourbon. Preference is given to the Bourbon state of the same name in Kentucky.

Two popular representatives often appear in disputes strong drinks: Jack Daniel's and Jim Beam. Let's take a closer look at them.

Jack Daniels

Booze with this name is produced in the state of Tennessee, which already casts doubt on the theory of territorial “belonging.” However, it is worth noting that in terms of composition, Jack fits perfectly into the recipe of the “bourbon” category.

American is made from corn, which makes up 80% of the total composition. The remaining 20% ​​is occupied by barley and rye. New barrels are used for aging, which also throws a coin into the box for the bourbon version.

The manufacturer only changed the bottling technology, in which the drink is filtered through charcoal.

Taking into account all the nuances of production, we can say with confidence that Jack Daniels - bourbon.

Jim Beam

Jim Beam, another one popular product, manufactured in Kentucky. The manufacturer indicates that Jim is a bourbon drink.

Production technology proves this. Beam is stored in new barrels, and the storage period is no more than two years. Consequently, the drink also has the right to bear the name “bourbon”.

Jim Beam is a brand with a long-standing name. Worldwide fame allowed the manufacturer not to stop at traditional varieties, but to release “experimental” varieties, which also gained extreme popularity:

• Apple;
• Honey;
• A drink that has undergone double aging.

Differences between bourbon and whiskey

The original question of whether bourbon is whiskey is incorrect. However, it can be rephrased this way: “What is the difference between bourbon and regular whiskey?”.

1. Scotch fermentation technology involves the use of special yeast. Bourbon ferments with the help of a starter, which is obtained from a ready-made drink.
2. To give whiskey its characteristic color, caramel is added to it. In the case of bourbon, such manipulations are prohibited. Add something to real drink not allowed by law.
3. Bourbon is considered an American drink. Whiskey “belongs” to Britain and is associated with it.

Rules of use

The difference is two popular types alcohol is obvious. However, in order to be able to feel it when drinking it, you need to drink real booze correctly. Any alcohol with many years of tradition requires respect. And such respect is manifested in the culture of consumption.

Drinking rules:

1. It is not customary to pour high-quality booze into glasses from “factory” containers. The drink is first placed in a transparent vessel made of the finest glass. In such a container you can not only evaluate the play of light and the shade of the drink, but also determine its age
2. Bourbon is usually drunk from thick-bottomed glass glasses. Older traditions involve drinking the drink from special tin bowls with two handles.
3. For drinking, you can use tumbler or rocks glasses.
4. Before taking a sip, American whiskey is warmed in the palm of your hand to “awaken” the flavor bouquet.
5. Bourbon should be drunk slowly. Only leisurely sips allow you to appreciate the taste and aroma of aged alcohol.
6. If you add ice cubes to a glass, the aroma of the drink is divided into its component parts, which is a definite plus when tasting truly exquisite varieties.
7. To prepare cocktails, it is customary to use only young, inexpensive bourbon. You need to mix booze with non-alcoholic ingredients, such as juice.

True fans of real booze will be interested to know some facts related to the famous drinks:

Is there a difference between bourbon and whiskey? Yes, definitely. It lies in both the preparation recipe and the taste of the drinks. Despite the fact that bourbon is considered a subtype of whiskey, such a “distant relative” from another continent can rightfully be considered an independent drink. And debates about their similarities can be an excellent reason for tasting both.

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