What's the difference between a high-wheat or a high-rye bourbon?

When most people get into bourbon, they quickly learn that there are two distinct categories of bourbon, high-rye, and high-wheat, but what do these terms mean and how do you tell which is which when selecting a new bottle?

Well, let's get into it. All bourbon is a whiskey that has at least 51 percent corn(Read more here). This gives bourbon that amazing sweet, and unforgettable flavor; however, the rest of the mash-bill is what each distiller has to work with to put their own "creative touch" on a bottle of bourbon. The three most common ingredients distillers use are rye, wheat, and barley.

So when a bourbon is "high-wheat" or "high-rye" all it means is that the distiller's creative touch for that bottle happens to have a majority rye, or wheat respectively.

What are the different characteristics between the two?

Great question. The difference in taste between a high-rye bourbon and a high-wheat bourbon is so large they almost taste like totally different spirits. High-rye bourbons tend to have a little more "spice" to them which gives them a much broader profile, while high-wheat tend to be much more smooth and easy sippers.

How can I tell which is which at the store?

Most bourbons fall into the high-wheat category, so if you don't specifically see the word "rye" on the bottle, you are probably looking at a high-wheat bourbon. Additionally, high-rye bourbons typically have a dark green label making them easy to spot.

What one is the best for people new to bourbon?

It is honestly a personal preference. Overall, I suggest trying some from both categories; however, if I had to pick I would say if you are someone who likes stronger flavors, try some high-rye bourbons, and if you are someone who wants a smoother experience a high-wheat bourbon may be for you. Over time, at least for me, my tastes have changed. I used to exclusively like high-wheat bourbons, but as time has gone on and my palette has evolved, I have come to enjoy the complexity that a high-rye bourbon offers.

What are some good ones to try from each category?

There are so many various bourbons out there, so it's easy to get overwhelmed when you are just getting into bourbon. That's why I recommend starting with the "classics". For a high-wheat bourbon, I always recommend Makers Mark, if you work your way through their line-up you will get a great perspective on the wide range of tastes that high-wheat bourbons offer. For high-rye, Four Roses is a great one to try.

If you try some from each category, rate them on the app NEAT: Whiskey Finder! and let me know what you think!