Bourbon is a type of whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. The main differences between bourbon and whiskey are the kind of grain used and where the spirit is produced. Bourbon is an American made whiskey that must contain at least 51 percent corn in its mash and be aged in new, charred-oak barrels. Whiskey can be made anywhere in the world, and its mash can be made from a blend of grains, such as barley, corn, rye, or wheat.

Here are some other differences between bourbon and whiskey:

• ABV: Bourbon has to hit certain alcohol by volume (ABV) marks when it is barreled, distilled, and bottled.

• Taste: Bourbon tends to be smoother than whiskey, with a softer mouthfeel and an overall sweet-presenting flavor, making it a good entry-level sipper. Bourbon often has a sweeter taste than other whiskeys because it is made from mostly corn.

• Production: Bourbon must be produced in the United States, while whiskey can be made anywhere in the world.

In summary, bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made with at least 51% corn in its mash and aged in new, charred-oak barrels. It has a sweeter taste than other whiskeys and must be produced in the United States.