Determining which kind of whiskey is right for you and your cocktail can be confusing. With so many options – how do you choose? Here, Columbia Distributing highlights the main differences between two popular types of whiskey – rye and bourbon. Both whiskies offer unique flavors and can work to enhance the taste of your cocktail. With knowledge in serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in Oregon and Washington, Columbia Distributing discusses what rye whiskey is, what bourbon is, and how they differ.
What Is Rye Whiskey?
Rye whiskey is made primarily with rye ingredients. Many brands are made in the U.S. in Kentucky, but you can also find variations in other states like Pennsylvania and Maryland. The general whiskey-making process involves crafting a mixture of grains with water. This mixture is called a mash bill. Mashes are what give whiskies different flavors and notes. A rye whiskey’s mash contents must be made up of at least 51% rye, along with other ingredients like corn, malted barley, and wheat. After creating the mash mixture, you must allow the whiskey to sit for years. This allows whiskey to obtain its delicious, classic taste and gives it the time needed to become flavorful and strong. Rye whiskey must be aged in a charred oak barrel.
What Is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of alcoholic beverage produced in the U.S. It is similar to rye whiskey, but bourbon mash is made of primarily corn, along with other ingredients like rye, malted barley, and wheat. It is also additive-free, meaning you can’t mix it with anything but water. Just like rye whiskey, bourbon must be aged in a charred oak barrel. This helps both whiskeys develop their delicious flavors over time. The longer bourbon sits, the better it can taste. Bourbon originated in Kentucky.
Rye vs. Bourbon: Which Is Better?
Some customers may prefer one type of whiskey over the other. Both bourbon and rye can deliver unique different tastes. Bourbon can be somewhat sweet, while rye tend to have spicier notes. However, rye whiskey can offer more versatility in terms of flavor since makers can experiment with different ingredients, from cinnamon spice to vanilla to other earthy or strong flavors.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is designed to be smoother. It also offers a sweet flavor with a buttery texture, along with notes of spice, caramel, and dark fruit.
Each type of whiskey can also provide different benefits when making cocktails. For example, an old-fashioned can be made with either whiskey. While the recipe originally used rye, it can also consist of bourbon for a sweeter taste. Bourbon can also be an ideal addition for some drinks, like margaritas or Moscow mules.
Ultimately, what’s “best” is up to you. The best approach is to experiment to see which whiskey appeals to you most.
Try Our Selection of Whiskey
Purchasing alcohol and other beverages has never been easier. With Columbia Distributing, serving across Washington and Oregon, customers receive quality customer service, and they can rely on the expertise and knowledge of our alcohol professionals. To learn more about the different kinds of bourbon, rye, and other beverages we offer, contact us today.