The Difference Between Whiskey and Bourbon
Dec 5, 2025
Whiskey and bourbon are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same. All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.
The two share ingredients, aging methods, and history (which blurs the line between them). But there are key differences that shape each spirit’s taste and role in cocktails.
If you’ve ever wondered what sets bourbon apart or why certain drinks depend on it, this guide explains all. We’ll cover what defines whiskey, what makes bourbon unique, and why those distinctions matter in an Old-Fashioned.
What is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a broad category of spirits made from fermented grain mash. Those grains often include corn, rye, barley, or wheat. Once distilled, whiskey is aged in wooden barrels—where time, temperature, and wood type influence flavor and coloring.
Whiskey is a globally renowned spirit with several major styles, each defined by its production method and signature flavor profile:
Scotch Whisky: Distilled in Scotland, typically made from malted barley, known for smoky or earthy notes.
Irish Whiskey: Usually blended, triple-distilled, smooth, and light.
American Whiskey: Includes bourbon, rye whiskey, Tennessee whiskey, and more.
Each style uses different grains and techniques, which is why the liquor ranges from soft and floral to bold and peppery. Think of whiskey as a wagon wheel, with bourbon being one of its spokes.
Other spokes of the whiskey wheel include Rye Whiskey and Tennessee Whiskey, as noted above. The former is made from at least 51% rye. It’s spicier and sharper than bourbon, with a drier finish.
Tennessee Whiskey is similar to bourbon but filtered through charcoal before aging (known as the Lincoln County Process). The result is an extra-smooth flavor profile.
What is Bourbon?
Similar to Scotch Whisky, Bourbon follows a strict set of rules. By U.S. law, it must meet all of the following requirements:
Made in the United States
Mash bill of at least 51% corn
Aged in new, charred oak barrels
Distilled to no more than 160 proof
Barreled at no more than 125 proof
Bottled at no less than 80 proof
More than formalities, these guidelines affect how bourbon looks, smells, and tastes. The high corn content creates natural sweetness. The new charred oak adds color, depth, and the classic caramel-vanilla notes people associate with bourbon.
Although bourbon can be made anywhere in the U.S., Kentucky produces about 95% of it. The state’s limestone-filtered water, climate swings, and long distilling history make it a natural home for bourbon production.
Flavor Differences
Whiskey encompasses a wide range of fermenting, distilling, and aging techniques, so the flavor varies dramatically between regions and brands. Scotch often leans smoky. Irish whiskey is usually light and soft. Rye whiskey brings the spice.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is typically warmer and sweeter. You may taste caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of baking spice—thanks to its corn foundation and charred oak aging.
This flavor profile makes bourbon approachable and balanced. It stands well on its own but also blends seamlessly into cocktails, especially those with a strong spirit base like the Old-Fashioned.
Truitt’s: Built on Bourbon
The best Old-Fashioneds are built on a strong foundation. And Truitt’s award-winning Old-Fashioned is no exception. We start with a 5-year bourbon, which brings balance, warmth, and depth without overwhelming the other ingredients. Then we add Grade A maple syrup, Madagascar vanilla, bitters, and citrus.
The result? A ready-to-drink Old-Fashioned that’s smooth (zero burn) and flavorful every time. No muddling, no measuring, no guesswork required. Every pour is perfect, and every bottle of Truitt’s brings modern craftsmanship to the long-standing traditions of the Old-Fashioned.
Whether you’re just learning the difference between whiskey and bourbon or you’ve been drinking bourbon for years, Truitt’s offers the balanced, yet complex, flavor you’re looking for. Order a bottle online or sign up for our newsletter today to stay in the loop on all things Soldier City Spirits—including discounts, events, swag, new releases, and more.
