So what is the difference between bourbon and rye? If you’re new to bourbon, you’re almost certainly asking it, and even a few seasoned veterans may forget it. Here’s a refresher:
While both bourbon and rye are made from grains and are often used interchangeably in cocktails, there are some key differences that set them apart.
What is the Definition of Bourbon?
Bourbon is an American whiskey that is made from at least 51% corn and is aged in new, charred oak barrels. The name “bourbon” is actually derived from Bourbon County, Kentucky, where the whiskey was first produced in the late 1700s. Today, bourbon can be technically be made anywhere in the United States, but it is most closely associated with Kentucky. When you think of “bourbon”, the standard Kentucky Straight bourbons you encounter in your local liquor store might come to mind, like Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark.
Bourbon must be distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume (ABV) and must be aged in barrels for at least two years. The aging process gives bourbon its distinctive flavor profile, which is often described as sweet and smooth with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
What is the Definition of Rye?
Rye is an American whiskey, but it is made from at least 51% rye grain, with the remainder being corn and barley. Popular ryes include the eponymous Sazerac Rye, Bulleit Rye, and the absolutely delicious PiggyBack Rye from Whistlepig.
Like bourbon, rye whiskey must be distilled to no more than 80% ABV and must be aged in barrels for at least two years. Rye whiskey is known for its spicy, robust flavor profile, with notes of pepper, cinnamon, and other spices.
See also Everything You Need To Know About Rye Whiskey for a deeper take.
Key Differences Between Bourbon and Rye
Mash Bill
The mash bill is the combination of grains used to make the whiskey. Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, while rye must be made from at least 51% rye grain. The difference in grains gives each spirit its unique flavor profile.
Flavor Profile
As mentioned earlier, bourbon is known for its sweet, smooth flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Rye whiskey, on the other hand, has a spicier, more robust flavor profile with notes of pepper, cinnamon, and other spices.
Production Region
While bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, it is most closely associated with Kentucky. Rye whiskey, on the other hand, has a long history in the Northeast and is often associated with states like Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Aging Process
Both bourbon and rye whiskey must be aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least two years. However, some distillers choose to age their whiskey for longer periods of time to achieve a more complex flavor profile.
Cocktails
Bourbon and rye whiskey are both popular choices for cocktails, but they are often used in different ways. Bourbon is a common ingredient in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, while rye whiskey is often used in spicier cocktails like the Sazerac and the Whiskey Sour. Of course, plenty of people (ourselves included) will not hesitate to use rye and bourbon interchangeably in cocktails (and you should too)!
Know the Difference Between Bourbon and Rye
The main difference between bourbon and rye whiskey is the mash bill, which gives each spirit its unique flavor profile. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn and has a sweet, smooth flavor profile, while rye whiskey is made from at least 51% rye grain and has a spicier, more robust flavor profile. Both spirits have a rich history in the United States and are beloved by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.