Category Archives: Bourbon

Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey, a barrel-aged distilled spirit made primarily from corn.

Irish Whiskey: Bottling Up Liquid Sunshine

Irish Whiskey : Bottling Up Liquid Sunshine

The word ‘Whiskey’ itself comes from the Irish ‘Uisce Beatha,’ which means water of life. One of the major differences between Scotch and Irish Whiskey is the distillation procedure. However, both these liquors are distilled spirits. Irish Whiskey is distilled thrice in comparison to Scotch being distilled twice.

The extra three-time distillation process of the Irish spirit imparts a smoother finish and some whiskey lovers even go on to say that this is what makes the Irish Whiskey the best in the world.

Moreover, when it comes to aging, Irish Whiskey is mandatorily matured for three years at least in comparison to two years for the Scotch whiskey counterpart. As a result, the Irish variant tends to be more mellow than Scotch.

Don’t Miss A Drop

Irish Whiskey is a great choice to keep you warm on a cold winter night. You could soothe your nerves when you have a turn. It picks you up when you are down.

Irish Whiskey is quite capable of knocking you out with its flavor. It reels you in with your body. You can feel smooth, sexy, and the best after dark every night. Irish Whiskey is all yours to try.

But Scotch is yet another word for whiskey. And what you choose to do at a whiskey party. If you have ever wondered what’s the difference between Scotch Whisky and Irish Whiskey; read on, we are happy to help you find out.

Scotch Vs. Irish Whiskey Vs. Bourbon

Let us get this one thing straight. Scotch is whisky but minus the ‘e’. The only reason it is known as Scotch is because of its geographical origin. Like sparkling white wine called champagne comes from the region of Champagne. Similarly, Scotch is the whiskey that is made in Scotland. Nevertheless, whiskey can be made anywhere. Bourbon is whiskey made in the United States.

If you are in the U.K. or Scotland and order a whiskey, you will most likely get a Scotch. Similarly, if you are in Ireland, you are most likely to get an Irish Whiskey. However, you are likely to get what you had asked for, if you are anywhere else in the world.

Nonetheless, the other big difference between Irish Whiskey and Scotch is also in the taste, apart from the regional leaning.

How is Irish Whiskey different from Scotch?

Well, both these whiskies are exclusively made in the nominative countries. Moreover, Scotch is made from malted barley and water, but Irish Whiskey comes from a sour mash of malted cereal corn grains, barley, and wheat. The term malted here refers to the grain that has been soaked, and subsequently begun to sprout.

However, the major difference between Scotch and Irish Whiskey involves the distillation process. Nonetheless, both spirits are distilled liquors. But Scotch is distilled only twice, and Irish whiskey is distilled thrice. The extra distillation of the Irish whiskey gives it a smoother finish. Some also go on to say that this added procedure eventually makes Irish Whiskey one of the best in the world.

By Irish law, the similarities between the two regarding the maturation process do not end there. All Irish Whiskeys must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. Moreover, most Irish distilleries use charred oak casks that have previously held bourbon. This gives Irish whiskey the distinct stamp of its mellow sweetness.

Oak is the preferred choice of wood for Irish Whiskey. It is not just breathable but durable as well. Charring the cask before adding the spirit gives the wood a filtering aspect that eliminates chemical constituents causing a hangover. This also gives Irish Whiskey that smoky, and toasty taste we all love so much.

Both Scotch and Irish Whiskey must mature for three years at least and even an extra day makes a huge difference. However, several distilleries producing whiskies on both sides of the Irish Sea mature for longer. They normally prefer to wait until the product attains the perfect taste profile.

What is Bourbon?

Bourbon is an all-American whiskey. It is made from at least 51 percent corn mash. Bourbon tends to have a much sweeter taste when compared to Irish Whiskey or Scotch. You can think of smooth notes of caramel and vanilla. This is further enhanced by the oak cask aging process. Moreover, because Irish Whiskey is normally aged in pre-used bourbon casks, Bourbon drinkers commonly find themselves enamored by the Irish cousin.

Now that you know the difference between Scotch and Irish whiskeys and bourbon, get set to try out some of these award-winning Irish whiskeys.

Try These Best Irish Whiskies

Free yourself from the regional requirements of Scotch and the nerdery surrounding bourbon, it is time now to try out these Best Irish Whiskeys . Irish Whiskey is an easy-going spirit that is perfect for both whiskey beginners and experts.

Irish Whiskey is generally known as a lighter whiskey. It comes without heavy notes of smoke or oaky vanilla. Here is a wide and diverse range of Irish whiskeys to be enjoyed and sampled as you brush through the year. Some of these Irish Whiskies are more suited for cocktailing. While others can be sipped neat just as you would a fine scotch or bourbon.

The Irish Whiskey category keeps growing with more and more examples flooding the spirit market across the world every year. The Irish Whiskey section at your local liquor store is no longer limited to just three or four big brands. They are most likely overflowing now with bottles marked with different barrel finishes and age statements. Nonetheless, there is always space for more on the bar for the old standbys.

Let’s begin with the Green Spot Irish Whiskey because it is affordable to be your everyday best sipping whiskey on the rocks. And yet luxurious enough to cater on special occasions.

Here are some of the best Irish whiskeys to try right now . We have gone the extra mile to compile this list.

Best Irish Whisky Brands

Here are the 18 best Irish Whiskey for you to try this year.

Bushmills 16-Year-Old Three Wood: With 40 percent ABV, this Single Malt Irish Whiskey is aged 16 years. It is individually seasoned in hand-picked bourbon and sherry casks. After which they are married and finished in port casks. Bushmills is a classy malt from Ireland. It is well known as a rare ‘3-wood whiskey. This Irish Whiskey yields distinct complexity, texture, and finish. This super smooth spirit actually tastes very good for whisky beginners. It does not have the harsh burning sensation that is usually associated with whiskies. We would highly recommend this one for you.

Connemara Peated Irish Single Malt: This Irish Whiskey is highly recommended if you are leaning into smoky flavors. The high-rated Connemara Peated Irish Single Malt spirit is for you to try. It displays an unusual peated profile. And which is exceptionally rare to find in an Irish whiskey. You can also expect notes of barley, chocolate, honey, and salt to come along with the spirit. This whiskey in fact is known as the only Irish whiskey with a smoky flavor. It is a unique top-shelf item deserving to be a part of your home bar.

Green Spot Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV, this is the best Irish Whiskey for sipping on ice. Featuring tasting notes of apricot, green apple, and honey, the Green Spot cult favorite was first created in the 1800s for Mitchell & Son, a merchant company. They used distillate from Jameson’s Bow Street Distillery. The Green Spot’ name comes from the method in which the Mitchell company marked the ages of the whiskey casks. A Green Spot on a barrel meant a certain age. A Blue Spot on the barrel would mean another. And so on. Eventually, the Green Spot on the Barrel won, and today it carries the legacy forward as a blend of single-pot still whiskey. This spirit is first aged in bourbon barrels and then in sherry casks. Green Spot is delightfully fresh for its light body and pouring the spirit over a large ice cube delightfully enhances the crisp, fruity notes. It mutates this Irish whiskey into an energizing drink.

The Irishman Small Batch Single Malt: This Irish Whiskey scored of 94 points from the Beverage Testing Institute. The Irishman Small Batch Single Malt also won the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is a fan-favorite Irish Whiskey that is matured in a special combo of used American bourbon oak casks and European oak casks that were previously used in the production of Oloroso Sherry. Expect notes of honey, sweet granola, toasted almonds, and vanilla to come on the palette with this Irish spirit. It is then excellently finished with a touch of malt and sweet oak.

Jameson Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV, this Irish Whiskey with tasting notes of grain, honey, and lemon is best for ‘Whiskey & Gingers’ cocktail. A Whiskey & Ginger made with Jameson is very popular. It has become a cocktail in its own right and nicknamed as ‘Jamo and Ginger’. This Irish whiskey brings forth a spirit that is light, and fruity, along with a hint of earthy cereal notes. It is extremely accessible and goes well with most mixers. However, it is particularly exceptional with ginger ale or ginger beer. This spirit acts more like a squeeze of citrus which brings brightness to the drink. Moreover, you cannot argue with the emotional pull it generates of the classic ‘Jamo & Ginger’. All nostalgia goes to Jameson, when it comes to Irish Whiskey. This was pretty much the only bottle you needed for a long time to make sure that you had stock in the bar. And Jameson also is the bottle you would quickly run out of.

Knappogue Castle 12-Year Single Malt: With 40 percent ABV, this is the best single-malt Irish Whiskey. It comes with tasting notes of dried apples, baking spices, and honey alongside a well-balanced palate. There are many single-malt Irish Whiskeys representing good value. This signature, entry-level release from Knappogue Castle is triple distilled in copper pot stills for a bright and clean start. It is then aged in bourbon casks for over 12 years. This results in a platonic ideal of Irish whiskey. The Knappogue Castle 12-Year Single Malt is incredibly sippable yet nuanced with layered flavors. This Irish Whiskey from West Cork is lighter and more refined than other similar spirits. It sees Irish barley and local spring water go into a hand-built copper pot still. The resulting distillate is then matured for eight years in first-fill flame-charred bourbon casks. It leads to more depth and character than single-malt Scotches can decidedly associate with. This Irish Whiskey bottle is highly approachable at 80 proofs.

Knappogue Castle 16-Year-Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV, this is the best splurge Irish Whiskey with tasting notes of dried apricots, honey, and toasted nuts. It is aged for a minimum of 14 years in bourbon barrels and later finished in Oloroso sherry casks. The Knappogue Castle 16-Year-Old Irish Single Malt shows up soft and velvety on the palate along with a long lingering finish. It can be enjoyed straight. This rare Irish Whiskey is factually a luxury within a glass. It certainly rivals some of the top bourbons and Japanese whiskeys in quality. Go ahead and break open a bottle after a successful dinner party. At around $100 for one, it is doubtlessly a splurge you can always justify.

McConnell’s Irish Whiskey: With 42 percent ABV, this Irish Whiskey is best for Hot Toddies. The spirit comes along with tasting notes of cinnamon, orange zest, and pear. The McConnell’s Distillery was originally founded in 1776. However, after being banished to the Emerald Isle during Prohibition, it recently made its way back to the United States. This Irish Whiskey is extremely sippable. It rounds off and plays well with a touch of citrus and can also handle the heat of a Hot Toddy or an Irish Coffee. This smooth and bold Irish spirit has notes of citrus. It will remind you of a Scotch with its high amount of malted barley. This is why it is ideal to be used in homemade Penicillin cocktails like a good Hot Toddy on a chilling day. The underlying citrus notes of the spirit go extremely well with honey from several cocktails.

Midleton Very Rare Irish Whiskey: This Irish Whiskey is regarded as one of the finest whiskies across the world. Only 50 casks of the Midleton Very Rare Irish Whiskey are made each year. It is therefore an exclusive and limited edition. This spirit is well known for its honied golden appearance. It is named after Midleton which is the location of the distillery. This top-of-the-line Irish Whiskey is hand-selected by the Master Distiller Brian Nation. It only comes once each year from a limited selection of premium ex-Bourbon and Sherry casks. This Irish spirit is aged anywhere between 12-25 years.

Powers Gold Label: This Irish Whiskey is generally rated by people at 7.5 out of 10 stars. The Powers Gold Label is a high-quality Irish Whiskey. The distillery has been in business for more than 230 years now. With notes of cinnamon, cloves, honey, and white pepper, this whiskey adds an underlying scent of butterscotch, orange zest, sweet fruit, and toasted oak. This versatile Irish whiskey appeals to a lot of different palettes. It is also a great choice for beginners. Powers is recognized as one of the first distilleries in the world. This spirit is a great choice for new whiskey drinkers. You are bound to like the sweeter taste and very smooth and complex flavor of this Irish spirit.

Redbreast 12 Year: With 40 percent ABV, this Irish Whiskey is best for sipping neat. It comes along with tasting notes of baked spices, nuts, and roasted fruits. The Redbreast 12-Year-Old is a great whiskey for beginners. It is very easy to drink and barely burns the heat. Starters can look towards this spirit as their first step into the Irish Whiskey journey. You would love the sherry notes Redbreast picks up during the aging process. The spirit is light, fruity, and flecked with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Moreover, the iconic bottle of The Redbreast represents a great way to begin and explore the intricacy of this category.

The Sexton Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of grain, honey, and roasted fruit, this is the best overall Irish Whiskey. The Sexton is easy to identify. It boasts of a unique black-and-gold angular bottle. This Irish whiskey is distilled thrice in copper pot stills. It is then aged in used Oloroso sherry casks that impart a honeyed mellow finish. The Sexton has tons of roasted pear notes on the nose. It follows through to the first sip. The spirit is also more earthier than many other Irish brands. This whiskey still has the telltale crispness of the category which makes it a perfect whisky for sipping neat or on a cube of ice. The Sexton is one of the few whiskeys to be concocted by a female master distiller. Especially in a category that has normally long been dominated by men. Moreover, this bottle is fairly easy on the budget. So, you can feel free to mix away and utilize this spirit in cocktails. The Sexton goes brilliantly with Hot Toddy, The Whiskey Smash, and a simple Whiskey & Soda as well along with a twist of lemon.

Slane Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of caramel, dried fruit, and vanilla, this spirit derives the best value for Irish Whiskey. The Slane hails from the Boyne River Valley region in Ireland. This place was once home to many other distilleries. However, this distillery is one of the few that has survived and revitalized the heritage. This Irish Whiskey is distilled on the grounds housing the old Slane Castle. It is then aged in a selection of three different casks. Including virgin oak, seasoned whiskey, and lastly Oloroso sherry casks. This Irish spirit is bold and layered with flavors of caramel, dried fruit, and vanilla. Alongside a rich history, complex flavor, and pedigreed musical ties, the Slane Castle has hosted group performances from David Bowie, Queen, and U2 in the recent past. This affordable bottle in fact is a steal. The three different casks it ages in add a different story to be enjoyed. It tames the spice when poured over an ice cube. Or you can also use its heft to your advantage in an Old Fashioned or a New York Sour cocktail.

Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey: With 46 percent ABV along with tasting notes of baking spices, dried fruit, and vanilla, this is the best Irish Whiskey under a $50 price tag. The Teeling is the first whiskey distillery in the last 125 years to open in the Irish capital of Dublin. It launched with this flagship bottle offering in 2015. The Teeling Small Batch is extremely smooth and rounded. This is largely contributed by the time the spirits spend in used rum barrels after initial aging in used bourbon barrels. This is an ideal Irish Whiskey for those who normally avoid spice in favor of sweeter spirits. With notes of baking spices and caramelized sugar on the nose, this Irish spirit comes with flavors of raisins and vanilla on the palate. This Irish whiskey is a great buy typically hovering around $40. You can always try the Teeling in an Irish Coffee or sip it straight along with some dark chocolate. It serves as a perfect shot after a dinner treat.

Tullamore D.E.W. Caribbean Rum Cask Finish: With 43 percent ABV this is the most unique Irish Whiskey in the market. Moreover, this bottle is the Emerald Isle’s signature spirit. It gets some flavor additions from an island chain located halfway across the globe. This tropical Irish spirit from Tullamore D.E.W. is aged in demerara rum casks. This gives it some unusual Caribbean Island flavors. Then there are notes of caramel, cocoa, and ripe pineapple in the spirit along with hints of coconut to bring in the concept. Despite its cereal backbone along with bright, crisp flavors, and toasty finish, the Tullamore D.E.W. is still an Irish Whiskey. It may not be a bad choice to experiment with this weird Irish spirit in cocktails typically made with rum, including a Mai Tai or a Piña Colada.

The Whistler – The Good, The Bad & The Smokey: With 48 percent ABV, this one is a blended single malt Irish Whiskey that is best enjoyed neat or over ice. It is the first blended malt coming from the Irish Whistler group. The Good, The Bad & The Smokey is naturally colored and non-chill filtered. It is distilled, matured, and bottled on Irish plains. Every gun makes its own tune and this Irish spirit is a melody of smooth blended single malts amidst peated heat. The spirit spends the first part of its journey in used bourbon barrels. After which it is married and finished off in 125-litre peated quarter casks for 10 months at least. This gives the whiskey a fiery peated finish of con days and roughened spice. Times where whiskey was gold and justice led the way. The smoky character of this Irish blended malt pays homage to the days gone by of the Western classics. The smokey palate of this Irish Whiskey is drawn from all three corners of the Irish plains. It offers a playful interlude between chalet smoke and the sweetness of bourbon along with delicate salinity. It is then followed by campfire embers, cereal sweetness, and herbal spices on the palate.

Writers’ Tears Copper Pot Irish Whiskey: With 40 percent ABV alongside tasting notes of baking spices, pear, and vanilla, this Irish Whiskey is the best runner-up for sipping neat or over ice. This whiskey is not a joke, although the name sounds gimmicky. The spirit is a blend of pot still and single malt whiskeys. It is then distilled thrice for smoothness. With the high amount of grains in the mash, the Writers’ Tears is produced in a classic way. It is then distilled in a copper pot just like how Irish Whiskeys were historically made. This is why you can either have it neat or on the rocks. Every sip allows you to sit back and dwell in the 1500s when Irish whiskey was so delicious. Even Queen Elizabeth had her drinks like this one. Pour yourself a dram and ponder over how you are going to get around to finishing the novel you are working on.

Yellow Spot Single Pot Still 12-Year-Old Irish Whiskey: With exotic sweet notes, this delightful Irish Whiskey has been awarded three times. It is largely opposed to the other ‘finished’ whiskies available in the market. The Yellow Spot matures for a full 12 years in three oak cask types. First inside American bourbon barrels. Then inside Spanish sherry butts. And lastly but uniquely inside Spanish Malaga casks. This Irish spirit packs a rich infusion of aromatic spices, dates, and figs with licorice, dark fruits, marzipan, prunes, and toasted oak.

The Last Word

Each of these Irish Whiskeys deserves a place in your bar. However, the overall favorite remains the Knappogue Castle 12-Year Single Malt due to its adaptability. You are perfectly at home in a tumbler over ice with this. This Iris Whiskey is also great when sipped neat by a fireplace. Or even when it is stirred into a seasoned cocktail. In fact, all of these Irish Whiskeys are a great upgrade when you are looking to expand your palate beyond the usual suspects.

FAQs

How is Scotch different from Irish Whiskey?

The geography is the primary difference between Scotch and Irish whiskey. Scotch can only be made in Scotland. Irish Whiskey, similarly, can only be made in Ireland. The region encompassed here involves both, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Moreover, both spirits are spelled differently. Irish whiskey is spelled with an added ‘e.’ The Scots leave the extra ‘e’ out and simply call it Whisky. Then there is a little authoritative difference between the two categories, including stylistic distinctions. The whisky from Scotland is most often peated and which typically leaves a smoky flavor and aroma. Irish Whiskey, on the flip side, is typically very bright and crisp. Nevertheless, there are exceptions as well.

How is Irish Whiskey made?

As per legal binding according to the Irish Whiskey Act of 1980, Irish Whiskey must be made from a mash of malted barley along with other optional cereal grains. This mash is then fermented and can be distilled to 94.8 percent ABV at the most. Irish Whiskey can either be distilled in a column still or a pot still. This spirit is then aged in wooden casks for three years at least. It can be blended or sold as a single malt; meaning that all spirits only come from a single distillery.

Which is the best way to drink Irish Whiskey?

Quite often Irish Whiskey is sipped straight. Either neat or over ice in a lowball glass. However, this whiskey is also great for cocktails including the likes of Irish Coffee, Old Fashioned, Whiskey & Ginger aka ‘Irish Buck’, Whiskey & Soda, or Whiskey Sour.

Tennessee Whiskey: Toasting to Perfection

Tennessee Whiskey : Toasting to Perfection

Tennessee Whiskey is not only famous, it has also been leading the race for distilled spirits. The early founders of the United States carried the craft of making whiskey as they moved west. The climate, land, and water of Tennessee fortunately was almost perfect for the production of this distilled spirit.

So, they did make whiskey, and this iconic brand has remained popular for more than 150 years now.

Tennessee whiskey is a great option for mixing into classic highball drinks like ‘Jack and Cola’. Tennessee whiskey is also a good introductory option for beginners. Moreover, this spirit can also be sipped neat or on the rocks when you like it chilled. However, it lacks the complexity that many whiskey lovers look forward to.

The ‘Spirit’ of Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee whiskey indeed is a kind of bourbon. Don’t ever have any doubts about that. Moreover, Tennessee spirits also meet the federal definition of bourbon. Including the necessity of having at least 51 percent corn. They are also aged in new charred oak barrels and are also free of any other additives.

According to state law, Tennessee whiskey must also be filtered through charcoal. This procedure is known as the Lincoln County Process. However, the only exception to this procedure is the Prichard’s Tennessee Whiskey. They use no charcoal. This particular brand of spirit was grandfathered in 2013 when the state defined the category.

The question that arises now is whether Tennessee whiskey is better than bourbon. The answer is an emphatic no. They are both good spirits and American Whiskey categories in their own right.

Nevertheless, Kentucky always had more distilleries producing whiskey than Tennessee. However, it is a historical fact that Tennessee was never far behind before Prohibition was enforced on the land. There were more than 700 distilleries producing the spirit in the state of Tennessee at the end of the 1800s.

It is equally true that both states have abundant corn cultivations. And which happens to be the main ingredient going into the production of bourbon. The limestone water available in both these states is ideal for cultivating corn and in the production of whiskey as well.

Additionally, temperature swings from hot summers to chilly winters effectively push maturing whiskey into the wooden interiors of the barrel. This is where the spirit takes on color and flavor.

Top 10 Tennessee Whiskey Brands

Nobody knows whether whiskey originated in Ireland or Scotland. However, both countries claim that they were the first to distill this particular spirit. However, both of them seem to make fine examples of this ultimate spirit. Welcome America! The new entry into the market. Many of these new brands have now been recognized in their own right. Especially for the distinctive flavor profiles they provide.

Tennessee however was not the first state in the union to start producing whiskey. There were others, near the turn of the 19th century, like Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia who reached there first. Nevertheless, Tennessee as a volunteer state has become renowned over generations for some admirable distilleries generating the finest American whiskeys.

The main problem facing modern whiskey lovers is figuring out which Tennessee whiskey delivers the best spirit. Which brand consistently delivers the finest dark hues, well-heeled aromas, and well-rounded flavor profiles?

However, beyond doubt, it can be fun to find your way by tasting across an entire state dotted with distilleries. Nevertheless, we at Madyasara will save you some time and trouble. We have culled out the losers to deliver the ten best Tennessee whiskey brands on the market today.

Clayton James Tennessee Whiskey: This spirit differentiates itself as one of the best Tennessee whiskeys. Clayton James makes it a point to perform a clever twist on the conventional Lincoln County Process. Only the hearts of the white corn and grain are used for fermenting. After which the spirit is copper pot distilled before commencing the aging process. This discrimination practically yields smaller batches. However, it ensures that the charcoal filtering process is not over-strained to eliminate impurities. This enables the brand to deliver unparalleled smoky and sweeter appeal to the spirit. As a whiskey aficionado, all you need to do is just sip on to be transported.
George Dickel Barrel Select: This Tennessee whiskey brand is quickly gaining ground as one of the finest in the market. It is perhaps due to the distinctive flavors it provides apart from the selectively handcrafted smooth premium appeal. As a true whiskey lover, you are bound to appreciate this aspect. The Barrel Select bottles of George Dickel are aged between 10 to 12 years. And of which only ten barrels are personally selected by the distiller. Eventually, this spirit selection transforms into a unique small-batch whiskey. The charcoal mellowing and aging process translates into a unique whiskey that offers a sublime velvety mouthfeel. This whiskey also imparts notes of spice and vanilla that linger on after the heat fills your tank.

George Dickel Classic No. 8 Whisky: This bottle is yet another offering from George Dickel. It delivers bolder flavors than its Barrel Select brethren. This Tennessee spirit is also a more accessible introduction to the brand where you can expect a balanced flavor profile alongside a smoother swallow. You will also love to enjoy the sharp aromas of caramel and wood alongside a strong and smoky finish. This handcrafted Tennessee whiskey effectively pairs with sweet notes of buttered corn and maple. However, this spirit is not for the faint of heart. But then it is sure to find space inside your home bar if you prefer having traditional whiskey flavors.

Jack Daniel’s Gentleman Jack: Some whiskeys are best when sipped with water or when poured over a cube of ice. Then there are some spirits meant to be mixed with coke or added with other ingredients in a cocktail. However, there are some whiskeys that entirely fall into yet another category where pouring anything but neat portions would seem to be a violation. Gentleman Jack from Daniel’s decorates itself as the latter. It is hard to argue when this coppery Tennessee whiskey fills your glass. The remarkably smooth finish of this double charcoal mellowed spirit fills your mouth. It delightfully comes along with rich flavors of caramel and vanilla.

Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 Tennessee Whiskey: The claim to fame of this sour mash Tennessee whiskey is that it has been charcoal mellowed to the finest. This means that each drop of the finished spirit has been filtered through ten feet of sugar maple charcoal. The filtered spirit is then matured in specially made handcrafted barrels by the brand. This is what makes Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 truly unique. However, this Tennessee spirit is not bottled on a discretionary timetable. It happens only when the master distiller judges that the aroma and the balance of sweet and oaky flavors are required to be perfect. Only then is the produce bottled and presented for public consumption.

Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Whiskey: This single barrel collection from Jack Daniel’s is a rich bronze-tinged Tennessee spirit that is indicative of aging and complexity. This whiskey comes along with notes of caramel, spice, and sweet fruit. The Single Barrel Rye is gleaming of ripe fruit and toasted oak. It delivers the brand’s trademark toasted oak and vanilla and toasted oak undertones to the hilt. As anticipated, the Single Barrel 100 Proof offers 50 percent ABV. Moreover, this Tennessee spirit is coupled with heady aromas and complex flavors. The Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Rye Whiskey is globally available at select duty-free airport shops.

Nelson’s First 108 Tennessee Whiskey: This brand name to be precise comes from the years the spirit spent between the 1909 statewide adoption of prohibition in Tennessee and the return of the historic Nelson’s Green Brier Spirit to the whiskey market. To be accurate, this number is exactly 108 years. This whiskey beholds the original recipe along with the mellowing effect of sugar maple charcoal filtering. However, this Tennessee whiskey brand initially filled 108 smaller-than-normal 30-gallon barrels with the spirit to boost rapid aging for two years. Subsequently, this whiskey was moved to full-sized 53-gallon barrels to complete the maturing process. The brown sugar and butterscotch notes of this Tennessee wonder are a good stand-in for dessert.

Prichard’s Tennessee Whiskey: This is the fifth-generation Tennessee whiskey that started with Benjamin Prichard. However, it still continues to the day with the original recipe. This Tennessee spirit consists of white corn instead of the standard yellow corn preferred by most conventional bourbon producers on the land. It ends up adding a bit of sweetness to the whiskey which enables the spirit to stand out from the lot. This Tennessee spirit is also unique in the sense that it does not go through the charcoal mellowing process that typically defines the whiskies of Tennessee state. Moreover, this spirit does not taste like what you expect from other Tennessee whiskey brands. It is decidedly different but delicious in its own right.

Rollins Tennessee Whiskey: Despite the ‘old time’ label, this brand is a relatively new addition to the Tennessee whiskey category. However, they strictly rely upon the tried-and-tested Lincoln County Process to mellow down the spirit. Additionally, the distillery uses locally-sourced ingredients to create a corn and grain sour mash bill. This Tennessee whiskey is golden in color but packs a punch as well. Caramel and vanilla crowd the aroma. The flavor profile of this whiskey leans towards spicy notes of cinnamon and clove but eventually, they are well rounded out by malt. This Tennessee spirit which has won a fair few awards till now is surely worth tasting and stocking. Especially when you are looking for something new to add to your home bar.

Uncle Nearest 1856: Tennessee is home to many fine whiskey distilleries. The region surrounding Lynchburg includes well-known names like George Dickel and Jack Daniel’s. Uncle Nearest is the new addition to the bunch. This story reportedly dates back to almost two centuries when distilling techniques served as the groundwork for the Lincoln County Filtering Process. The sugar maple charcoal filtering procedure to mellow the spirit before oak barrel aging has become synonymous with Tennessee whiskey. Moreover, it is true and not merely a local legendary tale. The Uncle Nearest 1856 premium-aged Tennessee whiskey has won global recognition for its flavor. The spirit behind this bottle relies upon double distillation and maturing to perfection alongside local ingredients that form the mash bill.

The Difference Between Scotch and Bourbon

Apart from being a produce from Scotland, Scotch is usually made from a single type of grain, mostly barley. Bourbon, on the other hand, is made with a minimum of 51 percent corn alongside other grains contributing the remaining percentage. These grains are typically added in order to make the spirit spicy or sweeter.

The Differences

Both Scotch and Bourbon are whiskeys, but the differences between them are significant.

You must have often heard people say, “Yes, I love bourbon. Scotch pretty smoky for my liking.” Or, even the opposite side of this spirituous acclaim: “Bourbon is too sweet for my liking, and way too strong. I would rather just stick around with single-malt Scotch.”

This is where we need to unpack!

There are significant differences between Scotch and bourbon. However, there is so much false information from boozy stereotypes that has created plenty of misapprehensions about both spirits.

Both Scotch and bourbon are whiskeys. They are wood-aged spirits that have been distilled from a fermented mash composed of a variety of grains. Barley is the dominant grain in Scotland. The single malt Scotch whisky, therefore, almost entirely includes malted barley. Moreover, single malt Scotches are products coming from a single distillery.

Then the blended Scotches are distillates or maturates coming from multiple distilleries. It is however quite important to note here that there are other regulations as well guiding the production of blended spirits, single and multiple grain whiskeys.

Additionally, whiskies from different regions of Scotland tend to boast their own unique character. These generally result from a combination of climate, distillation technique, terroir, and more. However, there certainly are many peaty and smoky whiskies out there. But all single-malt Scotch whiskies are not smoky.

Located far south in the Hebridean Islands off the west coast of Scotland, Islay is home to producers like Ardbeg, Laphroaig, and Octomore. This is the most popular region for this style of Scotch whisky. This spirit is a result of the production process in which the malted barley was used in the mash and subsequently dried using peat-fueled fires.

And the smoke of which eventually dries the grain while imbibing the spirit with its innate peaty smoke. Then there also are un-peated Scotch whiskies coming from Islay. Bruichladdich is a good example.

Scotch whiskies coming from the Highlands and Speyside most often tend to go in the opposite direction. They usually portray notes of dried stone fruit, heather, honey, and orchard fruit. Occasionally even flowers come to the fore in these spirits. On top of that, individual Scotch producers also have their own style. It is because of the climate, the type of pot stills they use, and the water sources where the aging warehouses are situated.

So Much For Bourbon – American Whiskey

On the other hand, Bourbon is based on corn. It has nothing to do with barley. Moreover, according to regulations, Bourbon must be composed of a mash bill consisting of at least 51 percent corn. However, some bourbon brands use a lot more than that. But 51 percent of corn is the legal minimum requirement. Barley, rye, and wheat are common supplements that go in the remaining 49 percent of the mash bill. Then there are other grains that may be used as well.

The required strength of Bourbon at the point of distillation cannot be more than 160 proofs. It is then required to be barreled for maturing at a maximum of 125 proof. Moreover, bourbon can only be aged in charred new oak barrels. Although the law does not specify where the wood should come from, most brands use American oak barrels. All expressions of bourbon that have aged for less than four years need to specify the amount of time they have spent maturing in barrels prior to bottling. Some bourbon brands also like to finish the whiskeys in secondary barrels, including ex-Port. Nevertheless, the primary aging is required to be carried out in new charred oak barrels.

Bourbon is a sweeter spirit in general when compared to single-malt Scotch. However, it is not right to paint all single-malt Scotches with a broad brush. The same also goes for bourbon. Take for instance that a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill will bring a more spicy character to the spirit. Whereas more wheat in the mash will tend to lend softness, and sweetness, alongside a pleasant and plush textural aspect.

Then there is another issue of the barrel that is to be considered. The source of the wood and the level and type of char impact the spirit during the maturation process. It is common to find warm notes of vanilla in bourbon. Deep and intensely charred barrels often tend to lend a smoky hint to the spirit aged inside them.

Last, but not the least, there is the issue of spelling. Whisky from Scotland is spelled without the ‘e’. It is also rendered as ‘whiskies’ in plural form. Bourbon is always to be spelled with an ‘e’ and referred to as ‘whiskeys’ in multiples. Nevertheless, there are exceptions like Maker’s Mark. They prefer to use Whisky on their label, instead of ‘whiskey’.

For all of their differences, However, despite the differences, both bourbon and single malt Scotch are unique and deeply expressive evocations. They feature distinct styles of their respective place of origin. This is why both these spirits find room on the bar cart. And mostly several different bottles of each one of them.

Bourbon Vs. Tennessee Whiskey

Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey are most often confused. They are more similar than you think they are and thereby confused with one another by many consumers. It is also a part of debate in the whiskey world as to why Tennessee whiskey cannot be called bourbon. Despite similar production processes these classic American whiskey styles undergo, they have some indispensable differences. Here is all you need to know while comparing them.

The Similarities
Both these spirits are made with a mash bill of at least 51 percent corn. The other 49 percent of the mash bill can include other grains like barley, rye, and wheat. The mash bill can however feature different proportions of the other grains involved. It is interesting to note here that major producers of both these American whiskeys generally prefer corn. And the mash bills of bourbon and Tennessee whiskey often reach 70 percent corn or higher.

Both these spirits are required to be distilled to a maximum of 80 percent ABV (160 Proof) and barrelled at a maximum of 62.5 percent ABV (125 Proof) for aging. Then they are required to be bottled at a minimum of 40 percent ABV (80 Proof).
Both bourbon and Tennessee whiskey are required to be matured in new charred oak barrels following distillation. The charred new oak barrels in which both these spirits must age contain compounds like lactones, tannins, and vanillins. These are normally responsible for giving the characteristic caramelized color and flavor profile to the spirit. This aspect is often considered to also impart sweet notes to the spirits they mature in comparison to other whiskey types.
However, neither bourbon nor Tennessee whiskey has a minimum aging requirement for their base designation. Although they must be matured for two years at least to be labeled ‘straight.’

The Differences

While most bourbon upwards of 95 percent corn is made in the state of Kentucky, technically bourbon can be produced anywhere within the United States, Tennessee Whiskey, on the other hand as the name suggests, can only be made in the state of Tennessee.
Tennessee whiskey alone undergoes a charcoal filtering process. It uses a technique during which the unaged spirit is required to be steeped in or filtered through maple charcoal chips prior to aging. This procedure is called the Lincoln County Process. While removing impurities and stripping the spirit of its bold corn profile, this process also is aimed at producing a slightly mellower whiskey type.
The Lincoln County Process terminology dates back to the mid-1800s when it was largely used to mellow spirits. It is most likely that this technique was largely used during the whiskey-making process for thousands of years. All Tennessee whiskeys must therefore use the Lincoln County Process by state law. The only exception to this law is made for Prichard’s Distillery. Phil Prichard, the present owner argues that his ancestor, Benjamin Prichard, did not ever use this filtering process for producing whiskey.
Bourbon, as a classification, is defined and regulated by TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau). However, as of now, there are no such state regulations enforced by Tennessee State. Moreover, the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), and USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement) specifically define Tennessee Whiskey as ‘a straight type of Bourbon’ allowed to be produced only in the state of Tennessee. However, this spirit is required to be produced in accordance with the laws and regulations of the United States governing the production of Bourbon Whiskey.

Most Common Brands of Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey

There are about 30 distilleries making Tennessee whiskey. However, the major brands producing this mellowed spirit include George Dickel, Jack Daniel’s, Nearest Green, and Prichard’s.

Then there are about 100 distilleries producing bourbon in Kentucky alone. Some of the most popular brands producing bourbon include Evan Williams, Four Roses, Jim Beam, Knob Creek, Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, and Wild Turkey.

FAQs

1) How come that Kentucky state moved ahead with producing whiskey when compared to Tennessee?

Prohibition is the primary reason. Tennessee was one of the first states to pass laws limiting alcohol production much before the national ban was enforced in 1920. Moreover, the anti-alcohol sentiment lingered on in the state even after Prohibition was lifted.

Distilling the spirit was legal in only three counties of Tennessee until 2009. And there were only three units distilling the spirit in the state at that point in time. George Dickel, the maker of ‘Cascade Hollow’, Jack Daniel’s, and Prichard’s were earlier launched in 1997.

The number of distilleries producing spirits in Tennessee state has quickly grown over the years. It has now issued more than 114 federal permits for distilling and bottling whiskey. Kentucky, on the other hand, has 128 units. It is also true that the number of distilleries producing whiskey in Tennessee has quickly caught up. However, according to the Distillers’ Association, Kentucky still produces almost 95 percent of all the bourbon produced within the United States.

2) Why won’t more distillers step up, and start producing more whiskey in Tennessee?

Several new distilleries have opened in Tennessee since 2009. However, all of them did not initially make Tennessee whiskey. Some units even got more creative to use less than 51 percent corn. They moved beyond the bourbon and Tennessee whiskey requirements. Moreover, quite a few did not want to make Tennessee whiskey until they were sure that the market would catch up. They found it better to wait for demand. Some distillers did not find the liquor viable as whiskey requires years of aging before bottling. Many new distilleries in the state also found it better to buy aged spirits from other distillers. Moreover, you could not make Tennessee whiskey without charcoal filtering.

Scope for Experimentation with Bourbon

Shaped by corn, white oak and honeyed sweetness Kentucky Straight Bourbon remains a classic incarnation of American whisky. Farming was a tough job in America during the years leading up to independence. However, Maryland and Pennsylvania farmers turned their excessive grain crop into whisky which was easier to store, trade and transport.

Distillers sooner shifted south into Tennessee and Kentucky due to tax hikes while grants to farming corn changed the raw materials. Whiskey distillation soon became a thriving business.

Early Bourbons

Early Bourbons were straight, rough & ready. The distilled liquor was decanted into casks, shipped, sold & consumed without much fuss. Nevertheless, refining the process went alongside. Using charred barrels brought scientific rigor along with sour-mashing. These are 19^th century beginnings that evolved rules for production of Bourbon.

Almost 51 to 80 percent of corn got supplemented by rye, wheat and/or barley and with distillation producing no more than 80 percent alcohol content by volume, Bourbon was now put into charred white-oak casks with addition of water and alcohol content no higher than 62.5 percent by volume. Although it sounds strict, there was lots of scope for experimentation.

Scope for Experimentation with Bourbon

Style in Bourbon Flavor

Not the only one, but Mashbill recipe of grains used in making Bourbon is unique. Mashbill is spicier, drier, peppery flavored and uses a lot of rye and effectively counters the sweetness of corn. Some of these favorite Bourbons include Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, Basil Hayden, Knob Creek, Bulleit & Four Roses Single Barrel.

However, think Van Winkle, Marker’s Mark, WL Weller & Fitzgerald if you are looking to add some smoothness, elegance & a nutty, subtle spice character. Bourbon works best for you anyway.