Settling the Bourbon vs. Whiskey debate
All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Here’s why.
The world of whiskey is one of taste, depth, and constant discovery. And one of the most common questions we’re asked at the Birdhouse is about the difference between bourbon and whiskey. While both are beloved styles of the same spirit, there are key differences in ingredients, distillation, and aging that set them apart.
Redbreast exemplifies the traditional style of Irish whiskey-making with (interestingly) a touch of bourbon influence, via maturation in bourbon barrels and sherry casks. As a result, we know how these whiskeys relate up-close, from generations of experience. To understand how bourbon compares to Irish whiskey and Redbreast, let’s look at what sets these styles apart.
What Is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a distilled and barrel-aged spirit made from fermented grains such as corn, rye, wheat and barley. Most whiskeys are aged in wooden barrels and contain at least 40% alcohol by volume.
The choice of ingredients depends on the region:
- Irish whiskey is typically made from barley and is known for its smooth, light character (our loyal following can attest to this).
- American whiskey includes bourbon (at least 51% corn), rye (spicier, drier), and Tennessee whiskey (corn-based with charcoal filtering).
- Scotch whisky (without the “e”) is made in Scotland from malted barley, often with smoky or peaty notes,
Redbreast is crafted from malted and unmalted barley, triple-distilled in copper pot stills, and matured in bourbon and sherry casks, giving it unmatched smoothness and complexity.
What Is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey made exclusively in the United States—just as scotch can only be made in Scotland. Alongside its origin, bourbon also uses particular ingredients, barrels and distillation methods.
By law, to be classified as bourbon in the United States, the mash must:
- Contain at least 51% corn in the mash bill
- Be distilled at no more than 80% ABV (no more than 160 proof)
- Be aged in new, charred American oak barrels—-giving its distinctive sweet notes of vanilla, carmel and oak.
Unlike many other whiskeys, there is no aging requirement for bourbon (who said patience was a virtue?).
Key Differences Between Bourbon and Whiskey
Now that we’ve defined both bourbon and whiskey, let’s break down the key differences that set them apart. From the grains used to the barrels chosen, each step in the process creates a distinct style, flavour, and character.
Main Ingredients
We couldn’t explain the difference between bourbon and Irish whiskey without highlighting the tasteful details – that good old mouthfeel. Since bourbon is made primarily from corn, it has a natural sweetness capturing the essence of true American whiskey. Other grains can of course be added, but corn must make up at least 51% of the overall mash.
Behind the legacy of Irish whiskey, however, you’ll uncover barley as the main ingredient. Redbreast Irish whiskey is crafted from a unique blend of malted and unmalted barley, sourced predominantly from local farms surrounding Midleton Distillery. In fact, we’re one of the few in the world using unmalted barley, but we do it for that silky, creamy mouthfeel and subtle spiciness. Some say it’s our signature style – and we couldn’t agree more.
Distillation Methods
Distillation is crucial in the Irish whiskey vs bourbon debate. Most bourbons are distilled once or twice. The first usually occurs in a column still and the second in the pot stills – a third is optional but rare.
With Redbreast Irish whiskey, however, three is the magic number. Our master blender follows a meticulously controlled process of triple distillation in traditional copper pot stills. This method creates a smoother, lighter spirit with a more refined flavour profile. It also removes more impurities and enhances the fragrant, floral and spicy characteristics that define Irish whiskey. So there’s method in the madness, we swear.
Cask Types
The type of barrel used in the aging process is another key factor in understanding what’s the difference between whiskey and bourbon. By law, bourbon must be aged in new, charred American oak barrels. While there is no specified minimum aging period, bourbon aged for less than four years is labeled accordingly, and bourbon aged over two years can be labelled as “straight bourbon whiskey.”
In contrast, the Irish Whiskey Act requires that Irish whiskey be aged in Ireland for a minimum of three years in wooden casks, such as oak. These casks may be new or previously used. Only then can it be declared as the one and only Irish whiskey.
Redbreast whiskey is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, which impart rich layers of fruit, nut, and spice complexity. Our maturation process varies from 12, 15, 18, to 21 years in order to achieve the deepest, most refined flavours; the signature taste of Redbreast. So although Redbreast 12 is aged for a minimum of 12 years, we also have whiskeys that are many, many years older. After all, we spent nearly three decades maturing our Redbreast 27 Year Old – and it was worth every year (so maybe it was us that said patience was virtue!).
Flavour Profiles
Bourbon and whiskey each deliver their own diverse flavour profiles and tasting notes. Bourbon’s signature sweetness comes from the new, charred American oak barrels used during the aging process. These barrels impart classic notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, which deepen and intensify with age.
Then there’s Redbreast Irish whiskey, which gives rich, complex flavours and a velvety mouthfeel. Due to its triple distillation process, the whiskey is impossibly smooth and effortlessly refined. Years of aging in seasoned oak casks, comprising both bourbon and sherry, contributes to nuanced aromas reminiscent of antique furniture, delicate wood resins, and linseed oil. On the palate, it reveals its fruity, spicy and elegant profile – characteristics waiting patiently to be explored from this signature Irish whiskey. Those in the know, know.
Geographic Origin
We can look to geography to really tell what is the difference between a bourbon and whiskey. Bourbon can only be made within the United States, according to the 1964 Congressional Resolution, which declared bourbon a “distinctive product of the United States”. Despite being produced anywhere in the USA, bourbon is mostly associated with the state of Kentucky, which is where the majority of its production is based.
Whiskey however is a global art. Redbreast’s sherry casks are made by hand at Jerez de la Frontera in Spain, and its ex-bourbon barrels are crafted in Kentucky. Irish whiskey is defined by its heritage, distillation style, and its balance. Known for its nuanced blends, it has a smoothness, lightness and spiciness incomparable to other types of whiskey. For more than a century, Redbreast has stayed true to the Irish pot still whiskey making tradition. The result is an award-winning Irish whiskey and a signature serve every time – that’s the Irish spirit.
Irish Whiskey vs. Bourbon: Which One’s for You?
The real test is the taste test. When deciphering between a bourbon or Irish whiskey, individual preferences dictate the mouthfeel, flavour and taste. Bourbon is singing out for those who crave a bold sweetness. Its marriage of vanilla, caramel and oak make for a sweet sip.
If that’s not your style, take a cue from our devout following with an Irish whiskey tipple of richness, balance, and smooth complexity. Subtly sweet and fruit-forward, balanced with an oak spice finish, Redbreast Irish whiskey is expertly layered with flavours, whether it’s neat, on the rocks or in a whiskey cocktail. It truly is quite the find.
Redbreast’s Take on Irish Whiskey Tradition
With a deep heritage that can be traced back to the 1800s, Redbreast is a whiskey seasoned with flavour, character and a unique history. Every drop is distilled, casked and matured in our Midleton Distillery, all under the watchful eye of our master blender.
Redbreast craftsmanship involves a carefully-made mash of malted and unmalted barley, that is then triple distilled and matured in bourbon and sherry casks for a minimum of 12 years. bringing global influences to a distinctly Irish whiskey. The outcome is a harmonious flavour profile that’s rich, floral, spicy and complex – a tasteful friendship differentiating whiskey and bourbon. Everything from cask selection, right down to the signature taste distinguishes Redbreast not only from bourbon, but most other whiskeys.
Discover the World of Redbreast
Redbreast has become the world’s most awarded single pot still Irish whiskey and the epitome of craft and quality. It’s the definitive choice for those who appreciate the exceptional craftsmanship behind this traditional Irish spirit.
Discover Redbreast — the true expression of Irish whiskey tradition.
FAQs About Bourbon vs. Whiskey
What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
The main difference between a bourbon and whiskey is that bourbon can only be produced in the USA. Bourbon must also be made of at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred American oak barrels.
Why is bourbon not called whiskey?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey and is considered a “distinctive product of the United States” under the 1964 Congressional Resolution.
Does bourbon need to come from Kentucky?
No, bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States. However, most of bourbon’s production occurs in Kentucky.
Is Irish whiskey smoother than bourbon?
Irish whiskey is known to be smoother than bourbon due to its triple distillation process that removes impurities at every stage of the cycle to produce a more refined spirit.
How do I choose between bourbon and whiskey?
Well, the best way to find out is to try for yourself. It really depends on your individual taste preferences. Bourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel notes, whereas whiskey has a more nuanced, balanced and complex profile of spicy, fruity, and rich flavours.