What is the Difference Between Rye Whiskey and Whiskey?

The main difference between rye whiskey and whiskey lies in the type of mash used in their production. Whiskey is a distilled liquor made from a fermented mash, commonly using grains like corn, barley malt, rye, and wheat. Rye whiskey, on the other hand, is a whiskey that uses a rye mash or a rye and malt mash. In the United States, regulations stipulate that the mash must be at least 51 percent rye in order for it to be called rye whiskey.

In terms of flavor, rye whiskey is more astringent than whiskey, making it particularly suitable for use in cocktails. Whiskey, in general, can be distinguished by the types and mixtures of grain used and the geographic location of its production. Scotch is a type of whiskey that gets its distinctive smoky flavor from the process in which it is made, using primarily barley as the grain. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that must be made in the United States and uses at least 51 percent mash from corn in its production.

Comparative Table: Rye Whiskey vs Whiskey

Here is a table comparing the differences between rye whiskey and whiskey (specifically bourbon, as it is a popular type of whiskey):

Both rye whiskey and bourbon are types of whiskey that start out as humble grains and acquire differentiating flavors and mouthfeels through the process of barreling and finishing. The key difference between the two lies in the mash makeup, with rye whiskey requiring at least 51% rye grain and bourbon requiring at least 51% corn grain. This distinction in the mash bill results in the distinct flavor profiles of each whiskey type.