Two of the most popular whisky styles in the world — but what actually sets them apart? We break it down.
It's one of the most common questions in the whisky world: what's the difference between Scotch and Bourbon? While both are whiskies, they're quite different in how they're made, where they come from, and how they taste.
Origin
Scotch must be made in Scotland. Bourbon must be made in the United States (though it doesn't have to come from Kentucky, despite popular belief).
Ingredients
Scotch is typically made from malted barley, while Bourbon must contain at least 51% corn in its grain bill. This fundamental difference in ingredients is what gives each spirit its distinctive character.
Ageing
Scotch must be aged for at least 3 years in oak casks. Bourbon has no minimum ageing requirement (except for "straight bourbon" which needs 2 years), but it must be aged in new, charred American oak barrels. Scotch distillers often reuse barrels — including ex-bourbon barrels.
Flavour Profile
Bourbon tends to be sweeter, with prominent notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Scotch varies enormously by region — from the light, floral whiskies of the Lowlands to the intensely smoky, peaty drams of Islay.