When it comes to whiskey, some people think they know what they want, but when presented with a few options, are left feeling overwhelmed. If you find yourself in this position (and not just for whiskey!), there's no need to worry! We're here to help you navigate the world of American made whiskeys and settle on your favorite type.
The list below will take a look at five different types of American-made whiskey: bourbon, rye, Tennessee, single malt and blended.
Bourbon Whiskey
Bourbon whiskey is a popular type of American Whiskey that has been distilled from at least 51% corn. It needs to be aged in new oak barrels, produced and bottled in America, as well as being 80 proof or more after distillation for it to legally qualify under the name "Bourbon". Bourbon can have no minimum aging period before consumption but typically takes on characteristics like spiciness and sweetness over time due its use of flavorful wood casks during production
Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey is an American spirit made with at least 51% rye, corn and barley. The fermentation process follows the distilling process of bourbon. Rye that has been aged for two years or more without being blended can be dubbed as "straight rye." Straight ryes tend to have a spicier flavor than sweeter bourbons due to their unfiltered nature which allows them retain some spice notes like cinnamon, herbs and fresh spices alike in its natural form.
Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee whiskey is a type of bourbon made in the state of Tennessee, and it has some additional requirements that make it unique. The first requirement for this special drink to be considered such is that they must have been produced within its home state. Secondly, Tennessee whiskey can only be aged if filtered through charred maple wood chips before aging; what's more known as Lincoln County process or charcoal mellowing. For just like Bourbon but with an extra sweetness due to their filtering process which may include caramel-like tones--Tennessee Whiskey offers something different than your usual cold one: "good taste without fire."
Blended Whiskey
Blended whiskey is a mixture of different types of whiskeys, as well as colorings, flavors and other grains. This process allows for the flavor to come through but keeps it at an affordable price point making them ideal in cocktails or on their own.
Single Malt Whiskey
Single malt whisky has to be made from one batch of scotch at a single distillery, aged for three years in oak before being bottled. Single is the term it gets its name from too because only malted barley can go into making this spirit- no other grains like rye or corn are allowed due to their lack of consistency with what defines Scotch's flavor profile. But these rules don't apply when you're stateside; sometimes American versions might use rye and not even bother aging them for 3 years!
Which type of whiskey is right for you? Maybe it’s bourbon, maybe it’s rye. Or perhaps Tennessee whiskey or blended would suit your taste buds better. Whatever the case may be, there are a number of different types to choose from our huge selection of American made small batch whiskey, just waiting for you to try!