What Is the Difference Between Scotch and Bourbon?

Glasses of Scotch and bourbon whiskey on a wooden surface

Curious about the flavor divide between Scotch and bourbon? These iconic whiskies each emerge from different traditions and processes, resulting in distinct tastes, aromas, and laws that define their character. If you want to choose the right whiskey for sipping neat or mixing into cocktails, understanding these core differences helps you appreciate what sets each apart.

Origins and Legal Definitions

Scotch must be distilled and aged in Scotland, following specific regulations under UK law.
Bourbon is produced in the United States, mainly Kentucky, and is recognized under US law with strict production criteria.

Core Ingredients

Scotch relies heavily on malted barley, often with some unpeated grains (grain whisky). Single malt scotch contains only malted barley from one distillery.
Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, providing a sweeter and slightly thicker mouthfeel. The balance often includes rye, barley, or wheat.

Distillation and Aging Process

Scotch undergoes double (sometimes triple) distillation in pot or column stills. The spirit is aged in used oak barrels (often ex-bourbon or sherry casks) for at least 3 years in Scotland.
Bourbon is usually distilled once in a column still and then a doubler or thumper. US law requires it to age in new, charred American oak barrels, which imparts strong vanilla and caramel notes.

Charred oak barrel used for bourbon aging

Flavor Profiles: Peat and Sweetness

Scotch is famous for its range: from the smoky, peaty characteristics of Islay malts to the honeyed, floral notes of Speyside. Peat smoke, used in the barley malting process for many Scotch whiskies, brings an earthy, medicinal edge not found in bourbon.

Bourbon leans into sweet, rich notes due to its high corn content and new barrel aging. Expect flavors of caramel, vanilla, baking spice, and sometimes fruit or nuts, with a fuller body and softer spice (especially compared to rye-based American whiskeys).

Key Differences at a Glance

Scotch: Scottish origin, malted barley, peaty or delicate, aged at least 3 years, used barrels.
Bourbon: American origin, mostly corn, sweeter profile, aged in new charred oak, no peat.
Scotch flavors: smoky, dry, floral, complex. Bourbon flavors: caramel, vanilla, oak, rich.

Single malt scotch with no garnish in a Glencairn glass

When to Choose Scotch or Bourbon

Choose Scotch for sipping neat, pairing with cigars, or enjoying layers of smoke, fruit, and spice.
Pick bourbon when you want a richer, sweeter base for classic cocktails like Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or simply a bold pour over ice.

The debate between Scotch and bourbon isn't about which is better, but which best suits the occasion and your palate. Each style's production, heritage, and taste makes it unique—and worth exploring in depth.