gin
whiskey
Bourbon or Scotch
What is actually the difference?
When it comes to the origin of a whisky, most lovers are very particular. While some swear by Scotch, for others bourbon is irreplaceable. But what is the difference between the two types?
Table of contents
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Reading time approx. 1:50 min
The origin
By now, it should be clear to many that not all Scotch and Bourbon are the same, and vice versa. The origins of the two types are different. Scotch originally comes from Scotland.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is a type of American whiskey. It is named so because it was originally distilled in Bourbon County in Kentucky. The county, in turn, was named after the French noble family, the Bourbons - apparently in recognition of their support in the American War of Independence.
Did you know?
In Scotland, whisky is written without an "e", whereas in Ireland and America, whiskey is written with "-ey" at the end.
Different ingredients
The decisive difference between Scotch and American Bourbon is still the basic ingredient: while the Scots use only malted barley to produce it, Bourbon Whiskey is made as a distillate of a grain mixture with at least 51 percent corn .
The different basic ingredients are mainly for historical reasons. When attempts were made to bring the knowledge gained in Europe to America to make whiskey, they were faced with a simple problem: barley was hardly suitable for cultivation in the area. Rye was initially used as a substitute, but this was very bland. Today, different types of grain can be used in American whiskeys. In addition to rye, these include corn, barley and wheat.
Corn in particular has a number of advantages for the Americans . Among other things, it can be grown on uneven fields with tree remains. In the southern climate, it also matures within just three months. Perfect for making bourbon!
The taste
Scottish whiskey and American bourbon whiskey differ greatly in taste. This is not only due to the different basic ingredients. The climate, the quality of the barrels and the length of storage also influence Scotch and Bourbon.
- Scottish whisky is characterized by many aromas. These can be reminiscent of the oak of the barrels - the whisky has to be stored in them for at least three years - or of fruits and grains. It is the long storage time in particular that gives the whisky its strong taste.
- The influence of the barrels is less in bourbon because it traditionally has to mature for a shorter period of time. Here, caramel and vanilla notes predominate in the taste. The bourbon is therefore a little sweeter. Due to the high corn content, the taste is still very special.
Did you know?
Strictly speaking, there is no minimum storage period for bourbon . Each distillery can decide for itself how long it wants to store its bourbon.
Do you know all the flavors in whisky?
You can find many different aromas in whisky. It is not easy to name and distinguish them, especially at the beginning. But so that you can have a say at your next whisky tasting, you should know in advance which aromas can be hidden in the whisky.
...Or go to the overview to learn more about the whisky!