{"id":5144,"date":"2022-12-25T13:30:48","date_gmt":"2022-12-25T17:30:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/?p=5144"},"modified":"2026-02-20T09:58:14","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T13:58:14","slug":"rye-vs-bourbon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/rye-vs-bourbon\/","title":{"rendered":"Bourbon vs. Rye: What&#8217;s the Difference?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"p1\">The difference between bourbon and rye matters more than you might think, especially when it comes to choosing the right liquor for sipping neat or mixing into your go-to cocktail. Bourbon and rye are as American as hot dogs and apple pie. With rich histories and complex flavors, the two have been delighting cocktail clinkers for over 200 years.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Each whiskey adds something unique, and many classic cocktails are bourbon or rye-based. But even though they\u2019re made similarly, they\u2019re not the same thing. Wild Turkey makes iconic examples of both styles, so they\u2019re a great place to start if you&#8217;re curious about the bourbon vs rye conversation. Join us as we roll out the charred new oak barrels and uncover the similarities and differences between these two legendary whiskeys.<\/p>\n<h2>What is bourbon?<\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"All You Need To Know About Bourbon | Campari Academy\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xfnhCiOV3r8?start=1&#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/tag\/bourbon\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bourbon<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is a barrel-aged brown spirit that must be made in America to earn the title of bourbon. It was invented in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and 95% of all bourbon is still made there. Purists will argue that it <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">has<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\"> to be made there, but these days, it\u2019s made all over the US.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bourbon starts life as a mash of mixed grains. The mash is cooked until it releases its flavor and sugary goodness. According to the American Bourbon Association, a bourbon mash must contain a minimum of 51% corn. The rest of the mash can be a mixture of wheat, malted barley, and rye grains. Every distillery has its own mash bill or <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">recipe for each whiskey they produce. Some keep it a secret, but many distilleries, even some of the largest producers<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> share their recipes.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">After the fermentation and distillation process, the bourbon <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">is diluted with water until it reaches the desired proof. It\u2019s then stored in charred new oak barrels for at least two years. The aging process mellows the bourbon, gives it its <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">color, and imparts the signature oak flavor. Great skill and knowledge are required at every step of the process to get the best possible liquid into the barrels. When it comes to <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">bourbon vs. rye,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> bourbon is not allowed to have any additives, while rye can in some cases. Bourbon is always bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Also see: <\/span><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/plan\/bourbon-based-summer-cocktails\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">9 Bourbon-Based Summer Cocktails<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>What is rye whiskey?<\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"All You Need To Know About Rye Whiskey | Campari Academy\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/m1NuZdiVvVA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Rye <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">whiskey<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is a barrel-aged brown spirit, and it doesn\u2019t have to be made in America to be considered rye. Many countries produce great rye, but America is still leading the pack. Much like its bourbon brother, if it\u2019s made in America, it has to follow the rye-mashing rules. The mash is where the real difference lies between <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">rye vs. bourbon whiskey<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Rye\u2019s mash must contain a minimum of 51% rye.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">From there the process is almost identical to bourbon, except that rye can have additives to infuse flavors or improve color. Rye whiskey labeled as \u2018straight\u2019 has no additives. If your rye whiskey is not labeled straight, then there\u2019s a good chance it has additives. Just like bourbon, rye <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">whiskey<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> is bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Read next: <\/span><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-whiskey-cocktails\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The 12 Best Whiskey Cocktails<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>What\u2019s the flavor difference between bourbon vs. rye?<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-5148\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"A field of rye at sunrise\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Rye-Field_Canva_Kaboompics-.com-from-Pexels.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Now that we\u2019ve got the technical differences out of the way, let\u2019s cover the most important thing of all: taste. Bourbon is known for its smooth character and silky mouthfeel. The hefty corn mash means it\u2019s sweet, and the barrel-aging process gives it notes of vanilla, caramel, nuts, fruit, and spice. In cocktails, bourbon adds depth and complexity, as well as a lingering oaky afterglow. It can be the main flavor in a cocktail, or it can lay a robust flavor base to build on.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Rye whiskey is bold, and assertive, and tingles the taste buds. It can range from grassy and peppery to heavily spiced with notes of oak, fruit, and smoke. In cocktails, rye leads the dance, and many classic cocktails rely on its robust character and body. When it comes to <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">rye vs. bourbon taste<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">, the best way to test cocktails is to try both versions and see which you prefer. Did someone say cocktail party? Yeah, you did!\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">You also might like: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/winter-whiskey-cocktails\/\">15 Winter Whiskey Cocktails<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>| <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-bourbon-winter-cocktails\/\">9 Bourbon Winter Cocktails<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/plan\/bourbon-based-summer-cocktails\/\">13 Bourbon Summer Cocktails<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>How are bourbon and rye similar?<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-6133\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"Side view of a home mixologist pouring holding a bottle of orange liqueur next to a surface filled with cocktail making tools and a refreshing cocktail garnished with an orange twist\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/03\/494.-Grand-Marnier-VS-Cointreau_Difference-between-Grand-Marnier-and-Cointreau_Canva_MAElSP5JvL0-mixologist-making-refreshing-cocktail-with-vermouth-at-home.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Bourbon and rye whiskey are both types of American whiskey and share some similarities due to their production processes and regulations. Here are some ways in which they are similar:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Origins &amp; legal definitions<\/strong>. Both bourbon and rye whiskey are types of American whiskey and are legally defined by the U.S. government. To be considered bourbon or rye whiskey, they must be produced in the United States, adhere to specific regulations, and meet certain criteria.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Grain mash<\/strong>. Both types of whiskey are made from a grain mash. Bourbon must be made from a mash that contains at least 51% corn, while rye whiskey must be made from a mash that contains at least 51% rye. The remaining percentage can be composed of other grains like barley, wheat, or malted barley.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Aging in new charred oak barrels<\/strong>. Both bourbon and rye whiskey must be aged in new charred oak barrels. The aging process imparts flavors from the wood into the whiskey, contributing to its characteristic taste.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Minimum aging period<\/strong>. There are specific minimum aging requirements for both types of whiskey. To be labeled as &#8220;straight&#8221; bourbon or rye, they must be aged for at least two years.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Alcohol content.<\/strong> Bourbon and rye whiskey are typically bottled at 40% <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/what-is-abv\/\">alcohol by volume<\/a> (ABV) or higher.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Go pro<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-whiskey-to-drink-straight\/\">Your Guide to Finding the Best Whiskey to Drink Straight<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Bourbon and rye whiskey cocktails<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-5147\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"A bourbon Old Fashioned garnished with orange and cherries\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/12\/433.-Rye-vs-Bourbon_Old-Fashioned_Canva_etorres69.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you love cocktails as much as we do, then high-five the next bourbon or rye whiskey bottle you see. If it wasn\u2019t for the golden nectar, we probably wouldn\u2019t have a booming cocktail industry. Back in the day (we\u2019re talking over 200 years ago), whiskey wasn\u2019t as refined as it is today. So, bartenders took to blending the rough stuff with sugar, bitters, and water. The \u2018bittered sling\u2019 or cocktail took off and the rest is history.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Many of the world\u2019s most iconic cocktails feature bourbon or rye. Here are a few of our favorites to try at home:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Bourbon cocktails<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/boulevardier-cocktail\/\">Boulevardier<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/hot-toddy-cocktail\/\">Hot Toddy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/old-fashioned-cocktail\/\">Old Fashioned<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/mint-julep\/\">Mint Julep<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Rye whiskey cocktails<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/whiskey-sour-with-egg-white\/\">Whiskey Sour<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/sazerac-cocktail\/\">Sazerac<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/recipes\/manhattan-cocktail-ingredients\/\">Manhattan<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">You also might like: <\/span><\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-winter-cocktails\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">11 Best Winter Cocktails<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>What is Canadian rye?<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-7687\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"Two tumblers of Canadian whisky on a picnic table in a maple forest in fall\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Canadian-Whiskey.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Canadian rye whiskey is a little more complicated to understand. Instead of a straightforward mostly rye mash bill, Canadian whiskey just needs to exhibit the qualities of rye whiskey. It can be corn-heavy with a touch of rye because there is no law dictating the quantities. The existing regulation states that whiskey must be made in Canada, and must be aged in 700-liter barrels for three years. Other than that, it\u2019s all up to the distiller.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Read next:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/plan\/best-rye-cocktails\/\">12 Rye Whiskey Cocktails to Make at Home<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Don\u2019t forget about Tennessee whiskey<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-7698\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"Two tumblers of Tenessee whiskey on a table overlooking views of the Smoky Mountains at dusk\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/Tennessee-Whiskey.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">What? Another type? Yes, but don\u2019t worry. Tennessee whiskey is made the same way that bourbon is except for two differences. The first is that it has to be made in Tennessee, and the second is that it&#8217;s charcoal filtered. The filtering mellows the flavor even more, so think of it as a lighter bourbon. This is often seen as a great option for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/plan\/camping-cocktails\/\">camping cocktails<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Read next<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/types-of-whiskey\/\">Types of Whiskey: The Beginner\u2019s Guide<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Featured liquors to try (our favorite brands &amp; recommendations)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-7803\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-1024x512.jpg\" alt=\"A set of whiskey tasting glasses lined up on a rustic wooden table, each containing a different whiskey option for crafting the perfect Old Fashioned.\" width=\"1024\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-1536x768.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-1480x740.jpg 1480w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard-760x380.jpg 760w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/08\/552.-Best-Whiskey-for-Old-Fashioned_Featured-Image_Midjourney_GP_HelenaLombard.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>When it comes to comparing rye to bourbon, our favorite brand is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey<\/a>\u00a0because they do both, and they do them <em>really<\/em> well! Here are some of the side-by-side pairings we suggest so you get a good feel for both kinds of whiskey:<\/p>\n<h3>Wild Turkey 101 + Wild Turkey 101 Rye<\/h3>\n<p>Wild Turkey has been making their 101 range the same way for 60 years in American White Oak barrels coated in the deepest alligator char. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/wild-turkey-101\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey 101<\/a> is a bourbon with a vanilla and cinnamon aroma, caramel notes, baking spice flavors, and a spice-and-orange peel finish. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/wild-turkey-101-rye\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey 101 Rye<\/a> is known for its deep golden amber color and warm, smoky flavor that lingers on hints of smoke.<\/p>\n<h3>Rare Breed + Rare Breed Rye<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/rare-breed\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey Rare Breed<\/a> is a hand-selected, small-batch, barrel-proof bourbon, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/rare-breed-rye\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey Rare Breed Rye<\/a> stands as its contemporary. The bourbon has an aroma of spring flowers, black pepper, and almonds, with warm, smoky flavors of grain and spice at first taste and a long, spicy finish. The rye starts with caramel apple up front, followed by rich, complex layers of honey and vanilla, ending on a pleasantly drawn-out finish with dried fruit notes.<\/p>\n<h3>Master&#8217;s Keep Decades + Master&#8217;s Keep Cornerstone<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/masters-keep-decades\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master&#8217;s Keep Decades<\/a> features a blend of rare bourbon that has been aged for up to 20 years. This makes it a standout whiskey with the character of an older spirit, but boasting a bold, vibrant 10-year-old bourbon as its backbone. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/masters-keep-cornerstone-rye\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master&#8217;s Keep Cornerstone<\/a> is the brand&#8217;s oldest rye whiskey, featuring a blend of rye whiskies aged for up to 9 years. The result? A drink that shows off just what an American rye whiskey can truly be.<\/p>\n<h3>Master&#8217;s Keep Unforgotten (a combo!)<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/en-us\/products\/masters-keep-unforgotten\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master&#8217;s Keep Unforgotten<\/a> is a masterful blend of a 13-year-old bourbon with a combination of 8-year-old and 9-year-old rye, finished in rye casks. This creates a 105-proof whiskey with fruit-forward notes of caramel and oak, complemented by dried fruit and honey flavors, finishing with black pepper and warm baking spices.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\">When to choose bourbon vs when to choose rye<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-11386\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"A Manhattan cocktail netxt to an Old Fashioned cocktial showing the differences and similarties between the two classic cocktails\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1536x878.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/Manhattan-vs-Old-Fashioned_FEATURED-IMAGE_Firefly_HelenaLombard-2048x1170.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Choosing between bourbon vs rye isn\u2019t just about knowing your mash bills; it\u2019s about reading the room, the recipe, and your mood. If you&#8217;re weighing up rye whiskey vs bourbon for cocktails, start by asking yourself what kind of experience you&#8217;re after.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Bourbon tends to bring smooth, mellow sweetness to the table: think vanilla, caramel, and baked spice. It\u2019s for when you want a well-rounded and comforting sip in those cozy moments or to add to easygoing drinks like a Hot Toddy or Mint Julep.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Rye, on the other hand, packs more heat and kick. It\u2019s spicier, bolder, and brings a sharper edge that can really shine in a well-structured cocktail. A bourbon vs rye Old Fashioned, for example, can be a game changer depending on which direction you lean. Bourbon will wrap you in warm sweetness, while rye brings that fiery, peppery lift that cuts through with confidence.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">On a cold night, curled up with a slow sipper and a vinyl crackling in the background, go for bourbon. Planning holiday drinks with layers of citrus and spice? Rye\u2019s got the guts to keep things interesting. And if you\u2019re pairing with food, bourbon plays well with grilled meats, pecan pie, and smoky barbecue, while rye\u2019s dryness makes it a sharp match for charcuterie boards, blue cheese, or anything with a savory bite.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">There\u2019s no wrong call, just different moods, different flavors, and different kinds of magic in the glass. The fun lies in tasting the spectrum and seeing which whiskey shows up best for the moment you&#8217;re in.<\/p>\n<h2>Loved this article? See these next&#8230;<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-12365\" src=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"Two Saz with a Sting cocktails on a copper serving platter in a light, bright home setting\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-1536x878.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/711.-Armagnac-vs-Cognac_Saz-with-a-Sting_Firefly_HelenaLombard-2048x1170.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 532px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If reading all about the <span class=\"TextRun SCXW214142235 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW214142235 BCX0\">bourbon rye whiskey differences got you curious to learn more about whiskey in general, here are a few more articles you should give a read:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-whiskey-for-old-fashioned\/\">Choosing the Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned: Bourbon, Rye, or Scotch?<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/plan\/best-cognac-cocktails\/\">14 Easy Cognac Cocktails: Simple Recipes &amp; Perfect Mixers You&#8217;ll Love<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/manhattan-vs-old-fashioned\/\">Manhattan Drink vs Old Fashioned Cocktail: What is the Difference?<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/best-bourbon-cocktails\/\">The Best Bourbon Whiskey Cocktails to Make at Home<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/learn\/scotch-vs-bourbon\/\">Scotch vs. Bourbon: What\u2019s the Difference?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>So, there you have it\u2014the short and long of the difference between bourbon and rye whiskey. Visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildturkeybourbon.com\/products\/?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=website\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wild Turkey website<\/a> for more. You can also stay in the know by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.themixer.com\/en-us\/subscribe\/\">signing up for our newsletter<\/a>, and we&#8217;ll send you all the freshest cocktail news first!<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The difference between bourbon and rye matters more than you might think, especially when it comes to choosing the right liquor for sipping neat or mixing into your go-to cocktail. Bourbon and rye are as American as hot dogs and apple pie. With rich histories and complex flavors, the two have been delighting cocktail clinkers [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":10297,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[39,48,23,37,20,53],"class_list":["post-5144","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-learn","tag-after-work-drinks","tag-bourbon","tag-easy","tag-savory","tag-weekends","tag-whiskey","content-author-karl-tessendorf"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Bourbon vs Rye: What&#039;s the Difference?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn the difference between bourbon and rye whiskey\u2014from flavor to mash bill. 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