Why is Bourbon better than Irish Whiskey?

While they are both a type of whiskey, Bourbon and Irish Whiskey are very different. Here’s a quick look at the differences.

Irish whiskey is distilled in Ireland from mostly malted and unmalted barley along with other grains like rye and/or wheat. I find Irish whiskey to have a rich, smooth and slightly sweet taste. It’s great as a mixer with soda or ginger ale.

Irish whiskey is aged in used oak casks for at least 3 years and contains at least 40% ABV. You can find blended or single malt varieties of Irish whiskey. Blended Irish whiskey comes from multiple distilleries using both malted and unmalted barley while single malt is from just one distillery using only malted barley.

Meanwhile, Bourbon is made in America from 51% corn. And unlike Irish whiskey, it’s aged in new charred oak barrels (many of the used bourbon barrels are shipped to Ireland to make Irish whiskey), must contain no additives and must be at least 80 proof when bottled.

Compared to Irish whiskey, you’ll find Bourbon to have a sweet vanilla and caramel flavor due to the corn in its mashbill. The rye in Bourbon gives it a warm and spicy attribute. And one can’t miss the deep oakiness of Bourbon.

Bourbon is usually best neat or on the rocks. It also is used in bourbon-heavy cocktails such as my favorite, the Old Fashioned.

Many may find Irish whiskey lighter and much easier to drink compered to Bourbon. It’s great as a mixer. My preference is Jameson or Bushmills.

But there’s nothing like the rich and complex taste of Bourbon. The wide range of flavors that make it a much richer alternative to Irish whiskey. That oak flavor is one of a kind. And it’s the all-American spirit. But if you didn’t notice - I enjoy all things Bourbon!