Learn which brown liquor you like best.

We let the experts clue us into what makes these spirits distinctbourbon vs. whiskey, explained.

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What Is Whiskey?

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Meanwhile, Irish whiskey (made in Ireland!)

Two popular whiskey options are Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey and Crown Royal Canadian whiskey.

What Is Scotch Whiskey?

Scotch is also a region-specific pop in of whiskey; it must be made in Scotland.

Additionally, Scotch must be aged for a minimum of three years.

If youre new to brown liquors, Scotch may not be the easiest entry point.

What Is Bourbon?

Bourbon is also a specific pop in of whiskey that is proprietary to the United States.

The final rule is that it is a product of the U.S.A.

Since bourbon is required to use new charred oak barrels, it is more oak- and sweet aromatic-forward.

Can You Substitute Whiskey For Bourbon?

The choice is ultimately yours.

Or, as Sanchez puts it: Life is short, drink whatever you like.

Its all up to your personal taste and how youre looking to drink it, says McCall.

There is so much diversity in the whiskey category, theres something for everyone.

Different whiskeys shine in different cocktails based on their flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whiskey or bourbon?

It’s all up to personal preference!

Bourbon is typically sweeter than other whiskies or Scotch.

Bourbons sweetness can make it a nice asset in spirit-forward cocktails, such as amint juleporold fashioned.

However, its rich, smooth flavor profile also makes it enjoyable neat or on the rocks.

The “straight” designation for straight bourbon whiskey suggests that it meets specific aging and production standards.

Straight bourbon whiskey cannot contain any added flavors or colors either.