Bourbon vs Tennessee Whiskey: What’s the Real Difference?

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What Is the Difference Between Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey?

Whiskey lovers around the world have long debated the distinctions between various types of American whiskey, especially when it comes to Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey. While they may taste similar and even share some ingredients and production techniques, these two iconic spirits have key differences that set them apart in both legal classification and flavor profile. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey unique, how they’re made, and why it matters to whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.

What Is Bourbon?

Let’s start with Bourbon, often referred to as “America’s Native Spirit.” In fact, Bourbon is recognized by the U.S. Congress as a distinctive product of the United States, and it must meet specific criteria to legally carry the Bourbon label. Here’s what defines Bourbon:

Legal Requirements for Bourbon:

1. Made in the U.S. – Contrary to popular belief, Bourbon doesn’t have to be made in Kentucky, but it must be made in the United States.
2. At least 51% corn in the mash bill (the mix of grains).
3. Distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume).
4. Entered into the barrel at no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV).
5. Aged in new, charred oak barrels.
6. Bottled at no less than 80 proof (40% ABV).
7. No additives allowed – no coloring or flavoring.

These strict standards help ensure consistency and quality across Bourbon products. The emphasis on new, charred oak barrels contributes significantly to Bourbon’s rich amber color and flavor, offering notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.

What Is Tennessee Whiskey?

Tennessee Whiskey is technically a type of Bourbon, but with an additional step that makes it legally and stylistically distinct. Made primarily in Tennessee, this spirit adheres to all the federal standards for Bourbon, but adds a unique filtration process known as the Lincoln County Process.

Legal Requirements for Tennessee Whiskey:

1. Must meet all Bourbon standards.
2. Must be produced in the state of Tennessee.
3. Must undergo the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the spirit through sugar maple charcoal before aging.

This filtration method mellows the whiskey, giving Tennessee Whiskey a slightly smoother, softer profile than most traditional Bourbons.

The Lincoln County Process Explained

The defining characteristic of Tennessee Whiskey is the Lincoln County Process (LCP), named after the county where it originated. Here’s how it works:

• Before the whiskey goes into the barrel, it is slowly dripped through several feet of sugar maple charcoal.
• This charcoal filtering removes impurities and imparts a lighter, smoother flavor.

Most Tennessee Whiskey producers claim this process refines the spirit and gives it a unique character that sets it apart from Bourbon. However, not all Tennessee whiskey producers use the LCP; for example, Prichard’s Distillery has a legal exemption and does not use charcoal filtering.

The Most Well-Known Brands

Famous Bourbon Brands:

• Buffalo Trace
• Maker’s Mark
• Woodford Reserve
• Elijah Craig
• Knob Creek
• Wild Turkey

Each of these brands has its own distinctive mash bill and aging process, leading to a variety of flavor profiles even within the Bourbon category.

Famous Tennessee Whiskey Brands:

• Jack Daniel’s – The best-selling American whiskey worldwide.
• George Dickel – Known for a more traditional approach and high-quality releases. Everybody loves a little Dickel.
• Uncle Nearest – A newer brand honoring Nathan “Nearest” Green, a formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel how to distill.

These brands proudly represent Tennessee’s contribution to the whiskey world and have helped elevate the state’s reputation among whiskey connoisseurs.

Flavor Differences: Bourbon vs. Tennessee Whiskey

While flavor is always subjective, there are some general trends when comparing these two styles:

Bourbon Flavor Profile:

• Richer, fuller body
• Strong vanilla and caramel notes
• Hints of spice and oak
• Sometimes bold and assertive

Tennessee Whiskey Flavor Profile:

• Mellow and “smooth”
• Lighter on the palate
• Often slightly sweeter
• Less bite or harshness due to charcoal filtering

Of course, the distiller’s choices, barrel aging, mash bill, and even warehouse location all influence flavor, so these are generalizations.

Is Tennessee Whiskey Really Bourbon?

This is where whiskey fans get into heated debates. Legally, Tennessee Whiskey meets all the federal criteria for Bourbon. However, Tennessee state law and branding preference dictate that products labeled as Tennessee Whiskey must also include the Lincoln County Process and originate from Tennessee.

So while it is technically Bourbon by federal definition, many producers and consumers prefer to treat it as its own category due to the additional requirements and distinct flavor.

In short:

• All Tennessee Whiskey is (legally) Bourbon.
• Not all Bourbon is Tennessee Whiskey.

Historical Context

The story of Tennessee Whiskey is deeply tied to the history of American whiskey itself. During the 1800s, distillers in Kentucky and Tennessee refined whiskey-making traditions brought over from Europe. As distillation techniques improved, so did local preferences for smoother or bolder whiskeys.

The use of charcoal filtering in Tennessee is believed to have been inspired by Native American techniques or African traditions brought over by enslaved individuals. The most famous story involves Nathan “Nearest” Green, a formerly enslaved man who played a crucial role in developing the charcoal filtration process and teaching it to Jack Daniel himself.

Today, Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey pays tribute to Green’s legacy and has become one of the fastest-growing independent whiskey brands in the country.

Price and Availability

Both Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey are widely available in the U.S. and internationally. However, the availability of specific expressions or limited releases can vary greatly:

• Bourbon offers a wider range of craft, small batch, and barrel-proof options.
• Tennessee Whiskey has fewer producers but benefits from global brand recognition, especially through Jack Daniel’s.

Which One Should You Try?

It depends on your personal taste! If you enjoy a richer, spicier, and bolder whiskey, Bourbon might be your go-to. If you prefer something smoother, mellower, and a bit more accessible, Tennessee Whiskey could be more up your alley.

If you’re a seasoned Bourbon drinker who hasn’t tried Tennessee Whiskey in a while, give it another chance—especially brands like Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel or Uncle Nearest 1856. You might be surprised at the complexity and depth these expressions offer.

Conclusion: It’s All About Preference

In the end, the debate between Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey is more about identity and branding than rigid distinctions. Both are uniquely American spirits with rich histories, strict standards, and passionate fan bases.

Whether you sip your whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, understanding the differences between Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey adds depth to your appreciation. Try both. Compare them side by side. Explore their nuances and celebrate the diversity in the American whiskey landscape.

Cheers!