Bourbon vs. Tennessee Whiskey

At a glance, bourbon and Tennessee whiskey look and taste pretty similar. Both are born in the American South, aged in oak barrels, and made primarily from corn. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find key distinctions in how they are crafted, and, of course, how they drink.

If you have ever wondered what separates a smooth glass of Jack Daniel’s from a rich pour of Elijah Craig, this guide to bourbon vs Tennessee whiskey breaks it down simply and clearly. By the end, you’ll know exactly what makes each unique and which bottle might be the better fit for your palate.

The Basics: What Is Bourbon?

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that follows a strict set of rules:

• Made in the U.S. (not just Kentucky)

• Must contain at least 51% corn

• Aged in new, charred oak barrels

• Distilled to no more than 160 proof

• Enters the barrel at no more than 125 proof

• Bottled at no less than 80 proof

• No added colors or flavors allowed

These rules ensure a consistent flavor profile, i.e., sweet, bold, and often full of vanilla, caramel, and spice. The use of new charred oak barrels gives bourbon its signature amber hue and rich wood-driven character.

What Is Tennessee Whiskey?

Tennessee whiskey is essentially bourbon with an extra step. It meets all the legal requirements of bourbon but adds one defining element: the Lincoln County Process.

The Lincoln County Process filters the spirit through sugar maple charcoal before it goes into barrels. The result? A smoother, mellower whiskey with slightly softer edges.

Legally, not all Tennessee-made whiskeys are required to use the Lincoln County Process, but most major producers like Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel do; so it’s become a hallmark of the style.

Bourbon vs Tennessee Whiskey: Key Differences

Let’s break down the differences of these closely related spirits side-by-side:

Flavor Profiles: What to Expect

Bourbon: For bourbon, think vanilla, baking spices, caramelized sugar, and toasted oak. It’s often bolder and more full-bodied, making it a favorite for sipping straight or using in cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Tennessee Whiskey: Generally smoother on the front end with a lighter finish. You might pick up subtle charcoal notes, honey, and dried fruit. It’s approachable and easy-drinking, especially for whiskey newcomers.

Top Bourbon Pick: Elijah Craig Small Batch

For a classic expression of what bourbon can be, it’s hard to beat Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon. Made in Kentucky, this bottle brings deep notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and a bit of spice.

It is versatile; great neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. And it offers incredible value for its quality. The Elijah Craig Small Batch is a must-try for anyone building a serious whiskey shelf.

Top Tennessee Whiskey Pick: Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select

Yes, Jack Daniel’s is more than a party bottle. The Single Barrel Select is where this Tennessee icon really shines. Aged longer and chosen for its unique barrel character, this whiskey delivers depth and elegance.

You’ll taste a richer mix of toasted caramel, spice, and soft oak – still smooth, of course, but far more complex than the standard No. 7 from Jack Daniel’s.

Cocktail Versatility: Which Mixes Better?

In reality, both styles work great in cocktails, but the choice depends on the flavor you’re after:

• Use bourbon when you want boldness. Think Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, Whiskey Sour.

• Use Tennessee whiskey when you want smoothness. Think Lynchburg Lemonade, Whiskey & Cola, Gold Rush.

If you are entertaining guests with different taste preferences, having both on hand offers maximum flexibility.

What About Rye Whiskey?

While bourbon and Tennessee whiskey take center stage, rye whiskey is often part of the conversation, especially for those who prefer a spicier kick in their glass. Like bourbon, rye must follow strict guidelines; One of which is that at least 51% of the mash bill must be rye grain.

The result? A whiskey that’s often drier, bolder, and more pepper-forward than its corn-based cousins.

If you enjoy a sharper, more assertive flavor profile, rye might be worth exploring as a companion to both bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. In fact, many brands offer both styles, so you can compare them side by side. One standout is the High West Double Rye, a bold blend that mixes younger spice with older complexity.

Rye isn’t better or worse; it’s just different! But understanding how it fits into the American Whiskey family gives you more room to explore and appreciate all three styles.

Aging & Barrel Influence: The Flavor Shapers

One of the most important elements in any whiskey is how long it’s aged and what type of barrel it rests in. Both Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey are required to age in new, charred American oak barrels, but the time spent inside those barrels can dramatically change the final flavor.

• Younger whiskeys (2-4 years) tend to be more spirited, grain-forward, and lively.

• Older whiskeys (8+ years) absorb more from the wood, and bring a taste that feels like a smooth blend of vanilla, spice, leather (yes), and dried fruit.

Tennessee whiskey sometimes shows a smoother finish at a younger age because of the Lincoln County Process, but aging still adds depth and complexity over time.

Want to taste the difference age makes? Compare something like Eagle Rare 10-year with a younger label like Bulleit Bourbon. You’ll quickly see how oak, time, and technique shape your sipping experience.

Price & Availability

Bourbons dominate the American whiskey scene, so you’ll find a wider variety in stores and online. While more niche, Tennessee whiskey is still highly accessible, especially big names like Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel.

In terms of pricing, both offer a range from affordable daily drinkers like Evan Williams Black Label to high-end, collectible bottles such as Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon.

Whether you’re buying a casual sipper or a special gift, there’s a bottle for every budget.

So… Is Tennessee Whiskey Bourbon?

Technically, yes, but also, no!

Tennessee Whiskey meets the legal definition of bourbon plus the added charcoal filtering step. That process makes it distinct enough that most distillers (and whiskey drinkers) treat it as its own category. It’s bourbon at heart, but with a softer, smoother soul.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Try?

If you love bold, spicy, oak-forward whiskey, start with bourbon. If you prefer smooth, mellow sips with a gentle finish, Tennessee whiskey is your lane.

But here’s the truth: there’s no need to choose sides. Both of these distilled pieces of art offer fantastic expressions of American craftsmanship, history, and flavor.

Build your bar with one (or both), and you will have the perfect pour for any mood, moment, or cocktail.

So, which would you like to try first?