Are bourbon and Scotch whisky the same thing? What is the difference between bourbon and malt whisky? For those who do not drink whisky, Scotch and bourbon might seem identical. However, although these two spirits share many similarities, there are also significant differences that many are unaware of. In this post, note the main differences between bourbon and malt whisky to show off your knowledge.
What is Malt Whisky?
A distribuidor mayorista de Whisky de malta and a connoisseur, know that malt whisky is a type of whisky mainly produced in Scotland. Its name comes from being made from malted barley, that is, barley that has been germinated and roasted to convert the starch into sugar
For a whisky to be considered a malt, it must meet certain legal standards, such as being made from 100% malted barley and distilled in artisanal copper stills. It must also be aged in oak barrels previously used for other spirits and have a minimum maturation period of three years.
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whisky mainly produced in the United States, especially in Kentucky. Its name derives from Bourbon County, where it originated in the 18th century. For a whisky to be considered bourbon, it must be primarily made from corn, although some include a blend of grains that contain at least 51% corn.
It must also be distilled to a maximum of 80% alcohol by volume and aged in new American white oak barrels for at least 5 years. A distribuidor mayorista de Bourbon lincludes it in the inventory to cater to selective tastes.
Main Differences Between Bourbon and Malt Whisky
Bourbon and malt whisky are two types of alcoholic beverages obtained from the distillation of fermented grains. Both have a long history and a wide variety of brands and styles. However, there are notable differences between malt whisky and bourbon, including the following:
Geography
If you've wondered what the difference is between malt whisky and bourbon, the most obvious distinction is their geographic origin. Bourbon is produced primarily in the United States, while malt whisky is mainly produced in Scotland. This means that each has its own tradition, culture, and specific legislation that influence its production and quality.
Organoleptic Differences
Organoleptic aspects are those perceived by the senses, such as color, aroma, flavor, and texture. Some significant differences between malt whisky and bourbon are due to the ingredients, processes, and barrels used for their production. The most notable are:
- The color of bourbon tends to be lighter and more golden than that of malt whisky, as corn is used instead of barley. As it is aged in new white American oak barrels, it has less pigmentation than barrels used for other spirits.
- As for the aroma, bourbon is sweet and smooth, because corn contains more sugar and the new oak barrels provide notes of vanilla, caramel, honey, and spices. The aroma of malt whisky is more complex, as malted barley has more nuances and the used barrels from other spirits contribute a variety of notes.
- The flavor of bourbon is sweeter, smoother, and smokier due to the sugar content of corn. The flavor of malt whisky is drier, more intense, and varied, for the same reasons as the aroma.
- The texture of bourbon is lighter and smoother than that of malt whisky, as it has less body and density. The texture of malt whisky is usually heavier and oilier than that of bourbon, as it has more body and density.
Origin
The origin of bourbon and malt whisky dates back centuries, a beverage that resulted from traditions and knowledge about the distillation of grains. For example, bourbon originated in the 18th century in Bourbon County, Kentucky. There, farmers took advantage of the surplus corn to produce whisky.
However, malt whisky originated in the 15th century in Scotland. In this case, it was produced by monks who used malted barley to produce a beverage known as "water of life." If you want to know how to start a business in alcoholic beverages, these facts are of great interest.
Ingredients
Another of the more evident differences between malt whisky and bourbon are the ingredients. Bourbon is made from a blend of grains that contains at least 51% corn, and the rest may be wheat, rye, or barley. Corn gives bourbon a sweet and smooth flavor, while other grains add complexity and spices. The water is from natural springs and the yeast is proprietary to each distillery.
On the other hand, Scotch malt whisky is made from 100% malted barley, which is barley that has been germinated and roasted to convert the starch into sugar. The malted barley gives the whisky a complex and varied flavor, with notes of fruits, flowers, herbs, peat, wood, and smoke. The water used is from nearby rivers or lakes, and the yeast is usually commercial, depending on the style desired.
Destilations
For those wondering what the difference is between malt whisky and bourbon, distillations are a point to consider. Bourbon is distilled twice, once in a continuous column still and once in a column still. This gives bourbon a higher alcohol content and a cleaner, smoother flavor.
On the other hand, malt whisky is distilled two or three times, depending on the region, in artisanal copper stills and in batches. This gives malt whisky a lower alcohol content and a more complex flavor.
Which to Choose: Bourbon or Malt Whisky?
In conclusion, the difference between bourbon and malt whisky can be found in their origin, production, and flavor. Bourbon is a sweet, smooth, and easy-to-drink whisky, ideal for those new to the world of whisky or for those who like cocktails. Malt whisky is a complex, intense whisky rich in nuances, ideal for those looking for a drink with personality.
If you're unsure how to start an alcoholic beverage business, keep in mind that no whisky is better than another; it depends on taste and occasion. The best approach is to try them and decide which you like more.
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