Whisky has been around since at least the 15th century, when it was distilled in Scotland and Ireland. Back then it would have had a much more potent flavour and bore little resemblance to the drink we enjoy nowadays. Because of its popularity, it was enjoyed by kings, chiefs and commoners alike, and the love for this golden beverage has only increased as the centuries have passed.

Different schools of thought, plus regional adjustments and varying methods, have created a whole host of classes and types of whisky across the world. Yet there are two elements that make whisky whisky: grain fermentation and ageing in wooden barrels.

The difference between bourbon, Scotch and whisky

Bourbon and scotch are always whisky, but whisky is not always bourbon or scotch. To put it simply, bourbon is an American type of whisky, and Scotch is used to refer specifically to whisky made in Scotland. The name whisky simply refers to all the alcohol created in a particular way.

What is bourbon whiskey?

Made primarily from corn, bourbon has been distilled since the 18th century. This is a type of whisky from the USA and is particularly associated with the southern states, especially Kentucky. How exactly it came to be is a matter of debate, with several localised stories and legends surrounded the drink’s creation. However, it is generally agreed that the distilling process was brought over by European settlers and that the current drink was arrived at by several independent developments.
In general, bourbon should be made in the US, made from a grain mixture of at least 51% corn, and aged in new charred oak containers. It generally tastes sweeter than other whiskies, with popular flavours including charred vanilla and spice.

What is Scotch whisky?

Scotch whisky – or Scotch – is simply the name given to whisky made in Scotland. The name is usually only used by those outside of Scotland.

The country is the most famous whisky producer in the world, and possibly the oldest (though others would argue that Ireland got there first). It is because of this that whisky is so intrinsically linked with Scotland.

Scotch is usually distilled twice and, in order to carry that name, must be distilled in Scotland and matured in oak casks for at least 3 years.

This kind of whisky almost always has a smooth, malty flavour with hints of woodiness. A subtle and natural sweetness comes from the addition of fruits or syrup. However, in general, there are a wide range of flavours amongst Scotch creations, and it can be difficult to narrow it down to a single description. We recommend sampling some of our bottles to find a flavour that suits you!

Whisky or whiskey?

There are two common spellings of whisk(e)y – with and without an ‘e’. Whiskey with an ‘e’ generally denotes an Irish or Northern American drink, while the spelling of whisky without the additional letter is more common in Scotland and everywhere else outside the US.

Some think the spelling should be influenced by where the drink was created, while others consider it more of a personal preference. Either way, the drink tastes just as good!

Whisky, bourbon and scotch at Chestnut House

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Fancy fine-tuning your palate so you can really taste the difference between different types of whisky? Have a browse of our online whisky shop to find your next tipple.