What makes Bourbon Different From Whiskey?

A lot of people use the term Bourbon and Whiskey interchangeably, but this is sadly not correct. All Bourbons are whiskeys but not all whiskeys are bourbon.

Over the years the unofficial definition of what makes a bourbon has gotten slightly looser; however, the traditional definition is as follows: It has to be a whiskey that is made from at least 51% corn, aged in new char oak barrels, has to be distilled at 160 proof, aged to be no more than 125 proof, has to be no less than 80 proof at the time of bottling, and has to be made in Bourbon country Kentucky (Whether or not it has to made in Bourbon country is very disputed but this is the definition you will hear from the distillers in bourbon county most of the time).

However a quick trip to your local store will bring some questions to this definition, there are numerous bourbons with over 125 proof (George T. Stagg, Bookers, and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof are just some examples). You will also see many examples of bourbons that are from places other than Bourbon County Kentucky (Ben Holladay, Etesia are some examples).

Most consumer's definition of bourbon today would be something like the following: A bourbon is a whiskey that is made of 51% corn, aged in new oak barrels, and was put into the barrel at 125 proof, and has to be at least 80 proof at the time of bottling.

As we can tell Bourbon has a fairly loose definition today, which is why there is such a great variety of flavors in industry. To help find some new pours that you enjoy and to track what you personally like, check out the app check out the app NEAT: Whiskey Finder!.