How to Distinguish Bourbon, Scotch, and Irish Whiskey

Whiskey

Whiskey is a general category for all scotch, bourbon and Irish whiskey. All are made in similar fashions with varying percentages of the same staples: barley, corn and rye. After the mash is made, the whiskey is aged in oak casks for years to add flavor, color, and depth. Does this Spark an idea?

Print this article

Instructions

- 1
  
  Scotch is a whisky made in Scotland and is imparted with a distinctive peat flavor. The Scots use peat to heat the mash to boiling temperatures.
- 2
  
  Bourbon is American whiskey that is made up of sour mash (a blend of new batch mash with previously made mash). More caramel spice flavors come out of bourbon than other types of whiskies.
- 3
  
  Irish whiskey is made in Ireland and typically unpeated. It is usually distilled three times (one more time than its Scottish and American counterparts).

Tips & Warnings

Buy a bottle of each and have a whiskey-tasting party.

Suggest item

Comments

What Is the Difference Between Scotch & Bourbon Whiskey?
In America, we frequently hear the words "bourbon," "scotch" and "whisky" used interchangeably, but in reality, bourbon and scotch are two very...
Bourbon Vs. Scotch Whiskey
There seems to be some debate over which whiskey is better and whether your preference is for bourbon or scotch -- both...
Differences Between Scotch & Whiskey & Bourbon
Scotch, bourbon and whiskey are all grain-based liquors distilled from a "mash," or a fermented, heated mixture of grains and water. They...
The Difference in Taste Between a Scotch & a Bourbon
Whiskey is a distilled spirit, usually made with corn, although sometimes made with rye. Scotch and bourbon are two types of whiskey....
What Is the Difference Between Whiskey & Scotch?
Many people enjoy drinking a glass of scotch or whiskey. There are differences between these two drinks, and a main distinction is...
Irish Dessert Foods
Irish Dessert Foods. If you have a sweet tooth and have an appreciation for dessert foods from different cultures, try some delectable...
What Are the Differences Between Whiskey, Scotch, Rum, & Brandy?
Whiskey, scotch, rum and brandy are alcoholic beverages developed using different ingredients but similar production methods. Each has its own distinct flavor...
Substitutes for Scotch
Scotch whisky is considered the king of whisky. Made in Scotland, scotch uses barley for flavoring, which gives it a distinctive, smoky...
What Is the Difference Between Bourbon & Whiskey?
Whiskey has been made from grains in many countries for centuries. Irish and Scotch whiskey are two of the best known. Whiskey...
Irish Whiskey Gifts
Irish Whiskey Gifts. A fan of Irish whiskey likely will appreciate a gift relating to one of his favorite alcoholic drinks. There...
How to Make Scotch Whiskey at Home
Whiskey is an alcohol distilled by fermenting grain mashes. Barley is the grain primarily used in the creation of whiskey, especially Scotch...
Mixed Drinks With Whiskey
Whiskey is almost as general a term as car. There are many types and brands of whiskeys. Five of the best known...
Who Invented Bourbon Whiskey?
Bourbon whiskey is one of Kentucky's great cultural contributions, both to America and to the world. A unique whiskey that easily competes...
Difference Between Canadian Whiskey & Bourbon
Whiskey is an alcoholic distilled spirit made from fermented grain and aged in a wood container. Bourbon is a variation on whiskey...
How to Plan a Whiskey Drinking Tour of Irish Distilleries
Known in Gaelic as "Uisea Beatha" (pronounced "ishka baha"), meaning "Water of Life", whiskey has enjoyed a high status in Ireland since...
Drinks to Mix with Scotch Whisky
Many people do not consider Scotch whisky an appropriate liquor to mix in cocktails. Scotch is a flavorful drink, and oftentimes an...
Types of Bourbon Whiskey
Types of Bourbon Whiskey. Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that was first produced in Kentucky. To be called bourbon in...
Irish Whiskey Punch Recipes
Irish whiskey such as Jameson or Bushmills can add an Irish twist to your punch. Give your punch the luck o' the...
About Old Cabin Still True Handmade Bourbon Whiskey
Whiskey generally refers to a variety of alcoholic beverages that are made from the fermented grain mash of barley, rye, wheat and...