Did you know that all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon? In this blog we will explore the unique qualities of bourbon and whiskey and talk about their fascinating histories and delicious flavour profiles. We will also discuss some highly-rated bourbons like Weller and Taylor’s Barrel Proof and share tips on how to pick and enjoy them.
Whiskey: What is it?
Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. It also includes grains like barley, corn and rye. Whiskey gets its name from the Gaelic “uisge beatha” which literally translates to “water of life”.
The art of producing whiskey is very old and can be traced back to 15th century Scotland where records indicate it was used for medicinal purposes and over time, whiskey production became famous worldwide leading to different styles and traditions.
Types of Whiskey
Scotch Whiskey like Ardbeg Distillery - 'Traigh Bhan' 19yr Islay Single Malt Scotch is the ideal drink. Ardbeg 19-year-old, a small batch has notes of pineapple, toffee, and lime sherbet and is sweet and sour. It also has hints of smoked chilli chocolate, paprika, and chocolate cream while aromatic wood smoke resonates through the long finish.
Irish Whiskey is typically triple-distilled like the John Jameson & Son Distillery - 'Jameson' 18yr Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey. Blenders at Jameson's hand-picked three whiskeys which they matured in seasoned Oloroso sherry casks for at least 18 years. Jameson, 18 years old, was then transferred to American bourbon barrels for a further 6 months, to put the final finishing touches to this unique and complex drink.
Canadian Whisky like J.P. Wiser's - 18yr Blended Canadian Whisky is often blended and light in flavour. Canadian whisky can include a variety of grains. Aged to perfection over 18 long years and blended with care to deliver a premium whisky with a smooth finish.
American Whiskey like Treecraft Distillery - 'American' Whiskey is actually a young bourbon made from 75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malted barley and has rich sweetness with notes of butterscotch and vanilla while also making a great Whiskey Sour. Weller whiskey is also a prime example of American whiskey, known for its smooth profile.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a distinctive type of American whiskey crafted from a mash predominantly composed of corn. Despite its widespread popularity, there remains some mystery surrounding this particular spirit. It can be said that bourbon is a subset or subclass of whiskey.
Legal Requirements:
Bourbon must be produced in the United States, mash should at least be 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, no more than 160 proof distillation and bottled at no less than 80 proof.
In the late 18th century, Kentucky became the birthplace of bourbon as pioneering settlers took to distilling corn-based whiskey and setting in motion a tradition that endures to this day.
Taylor Barrel Proof is an outstanding bourbon, celebrated for its rich flavour profile and elevated proof.
Key Differences Between Bourbon and Other Whiskeys
When it comes to whiskey, there are many differences to note, for example, Bourbon must contain at least 51% corn whereas other whiskeys can incorporate a variety of grains.
Bourbon is required to be aged in new charred oak barrels while other whiskeys have the flexibility to use different types of barrels.
Bourbon tends to have a sweeter, fuller flavour due to the high corn content and the use of charred barrels. On the other hand many other whiskeys like Scotch might showcase smoky or peaty notes.
The exceptional flavour profiles of top-rated bourbons such as those featured in The Epicurean Trader (Bourbon and Corn Whiskey) highlight these unique characteristics.
Some noteworthy Bourbons and Whiskeys for your collection
Glenfiddich Distillery - 'Bourbon Barrel Reserve' 14yr Speyside Single Malt Scotch, 14 Year Bourbon Barrel Reserve provides a rich indulgent sweetness, followed with a vivid and vibrant punch of vanilla from its new oak barrel finish.
John Jameson & Son Distillery - 'Jameson' 18yr Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey, is numbered, reflecting the limited quantity that is hand-selected and bottled each year. Jameson 18 Year is where time and tradition converge, aromatic oils with a touch of wood, spicy toffee. Wonderfully mellow and smooth and with a mouthful of complex flavours like fudge, toffee, spice, hints of wood and leather, vanilla and a gentle sherry nuttiness. A long, lingering finish carries the theme of the wood, spice and toffee right to the end.
If you prefer sweeter, fuller flavours you may think Bourbon to be ideally fitting your preference, but if you lean towards smoky and complex profiles then Scotch might be the treasure you need.
Pairing Bourbon and Whiskey with Food
When bourbon and whiskey are paired with the right kind of food, magic happens. They can truly elevate any kind of dining experience.
Bourbon Pairings
Taylor Barrel Proof is a robust bourbon that can be wonderfully paired with rich, savoury dishes like barbecue ribs or a juicy steak. The high-proof and bold flavours complement the smoky, charred notes of grilled meats well.
Whiskey Pairings
Weller Whiskey, known for its smooth and balanced profile, is incredibly versatile. The smoothness of this whiskey enhances the flavours of desserts like chocolate cake or apple pie. The whiskey's caramel and vanilla notes blend beautifully with the sweetness of these treats.
You might want to consider pairing Weller whiskey with a creamy blue cheese or a sharp cheddar. The whiskey's subtle sweetness and spice can provide a nice balance to the strong flavours of the cheese.
Interestingly, Weller whiskey can also pair well with seafood dishes like grilled salmon or shrimp. The whiskey's smooth profile complements the delicate flavours of the seafood without overpowering them.
Highest Rated Bourbons for Premium Cocktails
A customised premium cocktail with highly rated Bourbons elevates the experience. Some of the top-rated Bourbons to keep in mind are:
McKenna Distillery - 'Henry McKenna' 10yr Single Barrel Bourbon: known for its structured flavour profile, this bourbon is excellent for sipping neat or in cocktails and also this bourbon was named one of the top spirits ever tasted by Proof66, and earned 90-95 pts from Wine Enthusiast.
Heaven Hill Distillery - 'Elijah Craig Barrel-Proof' Bourbon: With its bold and intense flavours, this bourbon is perfect for cocktails that require a strong, flavorful base, uncut, straight from the barrel without chill filtering, the nose, taste, and finish created by 12 years of ageing are preserved in their simplest form.
After carefully examining the distinctions and commonalities between Bourbon and Whiskey with their rich histories and diverse flavour profiles, we find some noteworthy examples like Taylor Barrel Proof and Weller Whiskey which excel within these categories.
Ready to Explore Spirits even Further?
Check out the International Whiskey collections on The Epicurean Trader for some of the highest-rated and custom collections of bourbons and whiskeys. Or check out Bourbon Cocktails: Classic Recipes and Modern Twists
Discover the rich flavours and exceptional quality of these premium drinks.
