Bourbon Vs. Whiskey: What's The Difference? - The Pioneer Woman

Ree Drummond loves cooking with whiskey or whipping up an easy cocktail with it—but if you have a recipe that calls for whiskey, can you use bourbon instead? The answer is yes! This is because all bourbon is technically whiskey, but all whiskey is not bourbon. Read on to learn more about the differences between bourbon and whiskey.

Whiskey is a dark distilled spirit made from fermented grains such as rye, corn, wheat, and barley. It is an overarching term for this classification of spirits. Bourbon is a type of whiskey, but it comes with different distinctions and rules. To be classified as bourbon, a whiskey must be made from at least 51% corn, be made in the United States (many whiskeys are made in Scotland or Ireland), be aged in new, charred American white oak barrels, and be at least 80 proof. Bourbon often has a sweeter taste than other whiskeys because it is made from mostly corn.

Once you've picked out your favorite bottle of bourbon or whiskey start trying some of our favorite drinks! You can't go wrong with a mint julep, a classic Sidecar, this cozy hot toddy or a spiked mulled cider. You can use either bourbon or whiskey in any of these! Try using your bourbon or whiskey in cooking too, it works like wine, the alcohol cooks off and you're left with the concentrated sweet, tangy flavor. Try these spicy whiskey BBQ sliders, whiskey glazed carrots, and peach-whiskey BBQ chicken. Bourbon or whiskey is also delicious in desserts like these decadent whiskey-maple sundaes with bacon. You can even use bourbon as a substitute for vanilla extract!

What makes bourbon different from whiskey?

Bourbon is always whiskey, but whiskey is not always bourbon. Bourbon has important distinctions that differentiate it from whiskey: it has to be made in the United States from at least 51% corn, be aged in new, charred American white oak barrels, and the finished product must be at least 80 proof.

Maker's Mark Bourbon Whisky

Is bourbon or whiskey better?

Bourbon and whiskey are both delicious, and neither is better than the other. Bourbon has a bit of a sweeter taste, while the taste of whiskey varies. Price points also vary for both, so taste a few brands and go with whichever you prefer!

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Does bourbon taste different than whiskey?

Bourbon has a bit of a sweeter, smoother taste then whiskey, with notes of caramel and vanilla. This is because it is always made from at least 51% corn, which is naturally quite sweet. Whiskey can vary in flavor depending on how long its has been aged, where it comes from, and how it is made, and can range from oaky and dry to a full-bodied caramel-like flavor. You definitely can't go wrong with either!