Spirited Arms #004: Bourbon vs. Whiskey – What’s the Difference?

If you like to enjoy your dark spirits like many of us do, you might have had the question over the years of: what’s the difference between bourbon and whiskey? Is there even a difference? You go to your local liquor/spirits retailer, and some display them side-by-side while others will separate them distinctly. It seems a bit hodgey-podgey to be honest. We are here to dispel some of the rumors and muddied waters surrounding the two libations and make sense of the situation. So, today we will journey down the rabbit hole of what the difference is between bourbon and whiskey to leave you with a bit more wisdom while drinking with friends.

“Spirited Arms” Series on AllOutdoor

Welcome to our recurring series of Spirited Arms. Here, we want to share the intricate, interwoven history of firearms and alcohol. From periods of our country’s rebellion being mere colonies to becoming our own country, the wild and unchartered west, gangsters moving illegal spirits during prohibition, and even the fascination that remains today among gun owners and those who appreciate a well-crafted drink. Hopefully along the way you can garner a greater appreciation for the libations of the past and the liquor of today. Simultaneously, we hope you can teach us things as well through sharing your own expertise and thoughts in the Comments. Understanding our past can lead us to an even greater enjoyment today surrounding the drinks and firearms we share among friends. We hope you enjoy what we have to share!

Bourbon vs. Whiskey – What’s the Difference?

There is a funny saying if you are more in the know about spirits that “bourbon is always whiskey, but whiskey is not always bourbon.” That might not help you figure out the difference (it actually might confuse you more), but it is true. To better identify what bourbon precisely is, there must be some very specific characteristics present:

Made in the USA from at least 51% Corn Mash
Aged in New, Charred American White Oak Barrels
Finished Product must be at least 80 Proof

With bourbon being an American-style whiskey and a distinct product of the United States, it oddly enough is recognized by our U.S. Congress through those traits. So, if you have any whiskey made here, but it fails to meet those criteria, then it cannot be called bourbon. In our last edition of “Spirited Arms” we discussed the difference between whisky versus whiskey, and also went into greater detail about whiskey in general. As a refresher, whiskey is a wood, barrel-aged spirit from distilled various grains. This could be corn, rye, wheat, barley malt, or many other manner of grains.

So, as you can see – speaking in general terms – “all bourbon is whiskey while not all whiskey is bourbon.” In even more simple terms, bourbon could be viewed as a high corn-content mash whiskey with a much higher proof. Overall, if you want a bit more bite to your drink or are doing mixed drinks, then bourbon might be right for you. If you are simply sipping your spirits, then a lower proof whiskey could be up your alley.

So, the next time you are strolling through your local liquor store and you see some bottles labeled as whiskey and others printed as bourbon you will have some inside information the rest of the drinking public may not. As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Spirited Arms as well as some of your favorite bourbons and whiskeys in the Comments below! We always appreciate the feedback.

Spirited Arms – Drink of the Week: Mountain Mule (from Tincup)

1 – “Neat” Glass, Glass Tumbler, or Mug
2 Ounces of your Favorite Whiskey (give TINCUP Rye Whiskey a try)
5 Ounces of Ginger Beer
1 Ounce of Lime Juice
Crushed Ice

To start this drink, pour your ice, Ginger Beer, whiskey, and lime juice into your preferred drinking glass. Next, gently stir. Finally, garnish with a lime wedge on the rim and a leaf of mint on top. Its simple, easy to craft, and it will Wow all of your friends. Be sure to give it a try!

With a zesty bite of lime, the Mountain Mule is ideal for sipping after a warm day hiking in the mountains. – Tincup Whiskey

Specific whiskey “neat” glasses exist that have gentle, precise curves designed into them to squeeze lighter ethanol molecules out of its opening and keep the heavier, delicious smelling molecules within. For tasting different vintages of whiskeys or while looking to have a greater depth of enjoyment and flavor for yourself, it is highly recommended to use a “neat” glass. If you are unfamiliar with a “neat” glass or do not have one, no worries. Simply use a common glass tumbler.

Adam Scepaniak