This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category 'Functional'. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category 'Analytics'. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. I highly recommend checking out these articles: If this describes you, I have a bunch of resources for you that will help you find the best bourbons for your budget and taste preferences. If you’re a whiskey connoisseur who loves tasting the complexity in their drink, go with bourbon and drink it neat. You can enjoy it neat or mix it with whatever soda is nearby for an excellent drink. If you want an easy-to-drink whiskey with a modest flavor profile, go with Tennessee Whiskey. The true answer depends on your taste preferences.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer here. They order a “Jack and Coke”, which is Jack Daniels mixed with Coca-cola because the Tennessee Whiskey mellowness usually mixes better with coke than bourbon does.īourbon is usually enjoyed neat or in a cocktail like an Old Fashioned because its richer and more complex profile. The main difference is that most people drink Tennessee Whiskey in cola. Most people drink Tennessee Whiskey similarly to how they do bourbon-straight, on the rocks, in a cocktail, or mixed with soda. This is because Tennessee Whiskey follows the legal guidelines for bourbon production and there isn’t a law stating bourbon can only be made in Kentucky.īut Tennesseans and Kentuckians both don’t want it to be called bourbon due to pride and whatever else. Wars have been fought (social media wars, that is) over this discussion. Is Tennessee Whiskey Technically Bourbon? This makes them have similar flavor profiles even though the filtration differences make them have distinct tastes. The Similarities Between Tennessee Whiskey and Bourbonīoth bourbon and Tennessee whiskey are required to be made from at least 51% corn in the mash and aged in new charred oak barrels. Tennessee whiskey is obviously made in Tennessee-bourbon is normally made in Kentucky. Then, the whiskey is filtered through a paper filter that removes the charcoal.Īnother obvious difference between bourbon and Tennessee whiskey is where they’re originated. This is a form of carbon filtration where activated charcoal is added to the whiskey to remove oils and other unwanted compounds. This removes impurities and gives Tennessee Whiskey its smooth, mellow flavor.īourbon is also filtered before being put into the barrel, but most distillers use chill filtration. The process involves filtering the whiskey through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal. It’s used to remove impurities from whiskey. This is called the Lincoln County Process and it was developed in the late 1800s. The key difference between the two types of whiskey is that Tennessee Whiskey must be filtered through maple charcoal before being put into the barrel for aging. Some popular brands include: Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Woodford Reserve The Differences Between Tennessee Whiskey and Bourbon States like Tennessee and Indiana also play a role in the production process. It must be made in America, but surprisingly isn’t required to be made in Kentucky (even though most is). It also has a warm, spicy component from the rye and a deep oakiness from the barrel. This sweetness is mostly a result of the corn in the mashbill. It’s also aged in new charred oak barrels, must contain no additives, and must be at least 80 proof at bottling.īourbon whiskey is known for its sweet vanilla and caramel flavor profile. What Is Bourbon?īourbon is an American whiskey made from at least 51% corn. Popular brands include the likes of Jack Daniels and George Dickel. Filtered using the Lincoln County Process (more on this in a minute).Other than being made in Tennessee, it also must be: Many call it a “lighter” version of bourbon. It’s known for its light, smooth, and mellow flavor. Tennessee Whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is produced exclusively in the state of Tennessee. Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two American whiskeys. The two types of whiskey are both derived from fermented grains and aged in charred oak barrels, but there are some key differences between the two. If you’re a whiskey connoisseur, you’ve probably been wondering how Tennessee Whiskey differs from Bourbon.

Tennessee whiskey vs bourbon