Scotch vs. Bourbon: The Great Whiskey Showdown
Before we compare the two types of whiskey in a scotch vs. bourbon debate, we must define whiskey. In the broadest terms, whiskey is a brown spirit distilled from cereal grains and aged in barrels. But that’s just the DNA. When it comes to the family tree, each branch has its own traditions and distilling methods. Of course, every family has its conflicts, and whiskey is no different.
The scotch vs. bourbon sibling rivalry goes beyond mere mash bills. Think of scotch as the older brother, the one who paved the way for others, feels at home behind an executive’s desk, and is described as salty on a good day. Then there’s bourbon, a drink that fits in anywhere from a metropolitan bar to a rough-and-tumble saloon and gets along with almost everyone thanks to its sweet-as-pie flavor profile.
It appears the two types of whiskey couldn’t be more different. But upon a closer look these estranged family members have some surprising similarities.
Range of Flavors
Scotch
Smoky is the first word that comes to mind when people describe the flavor of scotch (especially if they haven’t had much scotch). Even though peat smoke is one scotch’s most iconic flavors, the spirit is the most diverse in flavor of all whiskeys. Many scotches don’t have even a whiff of smoke. That’s a good thing, because it’s an acquired taste that often scares off beginners. So next time you’re at a scotch tasting, look out for other flavor notes, such as sherry, port, or even bourbon from the second-use barrels it’s often aged in.
Bourbon
Some bourbons have diverse flavor profiles, but most of them share a similarly sweet, cereal-y flavor. They’re all at least 51% corn, and the rest is made up of other grains such as rye, wheat, or barley; the exact ratio is what lends a tipple its particular tang. The rest of the flavor profile is determined by how long the spirit is aged in new oak barrels.
The Verdict
Bourbon just can’t stand up to scotch’s diversity. This is definitely a win for the Scots.
Scotch: 1
Bourbon: 0
Price
Scotch
First things first—you can probably find something in your price range, but it will be at the high end. For a cheaper drink, keep your eyes open for blends. When it comes down to it, though, a 25-year single malt is a great choice if you’ve got deep pockets and an evening to spend contemplatively. Otherwise, bourbon is probably a better bet.
Bourbon
Bourbon is all over the place price-wise, but there are plenty of options under $30—including the nice stuff. That’s because the warmer climate of the United States allows for bourbon to age much more quickly. If you do have the bank account for a pricier bourbon tasting, however, there are options well into the hundreds of dollars. Either way, that’s one point for American whiskey.
The Verdict
For something top shelf that won’t break the bank, bourbon is your best friend.
Scotch: 1
Bourbon: 1
Pairings
Scotch
Based on the drink’s diversity, it’s not really fair to offer a blanket recommendation for scotch pairings. Take Laphroaig, for example. The classic Islay dram bracing smoke and sea-spray notes require rich, robust flavors such as red meat or blue cheese. On the other hand, Balvenie is a delicate, creamy drink that goes well with a smooth gouda or gourmet chocolate.
Bourbon
Though the flavor profiles are similar across the board, it is bourbon’s subtle differences that make it shine in food pairings. Dried fruits and autumnal spices are common background notes, so you’d do well to choose a flaky fruit pie or tangy cheesecake for your bourbon pairing. Bourbon can really elevate a salty or savory dish, too, especially one with an element of sweetness. Try it with honey ham, or tender barbecue ribs.
The Verdict
This category relies heavily on personal taste, and both whiskeys bring a lot to the table. Let’s call it a tie.
Scotch: 2
Bourbon: 2
Across the Aisle
Scotch
If you’re a bourbon drinker looking to expand your horizons, there’s a scotch for you. It just depends what you’re looking for. Is it sweetness that entices you? Seek out a Speyside dram such as Glenmorangie. Is it a certain bourbon-y je nais se quoi you’re after? Look for a bourbon-barrel-aged scotch.
Bourbon
Scotch drinkers might be surprised to learn that some of the quintessential methods for scotch making have made the leap across the pond. For example, Balcones makes a blue-corn whiskey that’s smoked over burning mesquite. And if it’s prestige you’re after, you can try to track down one of Pappy Van Winkle—AKA Old Pappy’s—rare bottles.
The Verdict
Why do we always have to be competing? This category is all about love. Everyone’s a winner, and it would be a shame to break up that tie.