What's The Difference Between Bourbon And Rye
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Legal Definition: Bourbon vs. Rye Whiskey
The key difference between bourbon and rye whiskey is their legal definition, which is primarily based on their grain content, production process, and aging requirements. Here's how they differ:
Bourbon (American Whiskey)
- Grain Mash: Must be made from at least 51% corn (the rest can be rye, barley, or wheat).
- Distillation: Must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV).
- Barreling: Must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
- Entry Proof: Cannot be barreled at more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV).
- Bottling Proof: Must be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV).
- Additives: No additives (except water for proofing).
- Geographic Restrictions: Must be made in the U.S. (but not just Kentucky).
Rye Whiskey (American Rye Whiskey)
- Grain Mash: Must be made from at least 51% rye (the rest can be corn or malted barley).
- Distillation: Must be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV).
- Barreling: Must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
- Entry Proof: Cannot be barreled at more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV).
- Bottling Proof: Must be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV).
- Additives: No additives (except water for proofing).
- Geographic Restrictions: Must be made in the U.S..
Canadian Rye Whiskey
- In Canada, “rye whisky” does not have to contain 51% rye—many Canadian whiskies use only a small amount of rye but still carry the name.
- Canadian ryes tend to be lighter and smoother than American rye whiskey.
Taste
The key taste difference between bourbon and rye whiskey comes down to their main ingredients:
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Bourbon (at least 51% corn) is typically sweeter, smoother, and richer, with flavors of vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, and oak. It has a rounder, more mellow mouthfeel due to the high corn content.
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Rye whiskey (at least 51% rye grain) is spicier, drier, and more intense, with flavors of pepper, cinnamon, clove, and grassy or herbal notes. It has a sharper, more pronounced bite compared to bourbon.
If you like sweeter, dessert-like flavors, bourbon is a great choice. If you prefer a spicy, bold, and drier whiskey, rye is the way to go.
