When browsing our vast aisles at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore, you may run into two similar-looking styles of alcohol — Whiskey and Bourbon. You might be wondering what the differences between these two alcohols are. The first thing to note is that bourbon is a type of whiskey. In essence, all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. In the following read, your local experts in Lone Tree will break down the main differences between whiskey and bourbon so that you can make the best choice for your taste! Visit our store today for the best alcohol variety in Colorado.

What Is Bourbon?

Bourbon is an American-style whiskey distilled from a mash made primarily from corn. Distillers can only label a spirit bourbon when made with at least 51 percent corn and are allowed to age in new charred oak barrels. As bourbon is aged in barrels, the mash must be distilled at 160 proof (80 percent alcohol by volume) or less and aged until it is no more than 125 proof (62.5 percent alcohol per volume). Once filtered and diluted, bourbon must be no less than 80 proof (40 percent alcohol per volume) to meet requirements.

What Is Whiskey?

Whiskey is a spirit distilled from a fermented mix of grains including barley, corn, rye, or wheat. Unlike bourbon which is American-made, whiskey is produced all over the world, most notably in Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and Canada. Whiskey can be aged or unaged but is often better when aged in wooden barrels, which darkens its color and improves the flavor. ABV marks differ depending on the style of whiskey, so it is best to check the bottle to know what you are drinking! 

Main Differences 

The main differences between bourbon and whiskey are the grains used and where the spirit is made. Some other differences include:

  • Bourbon is American-made and must contain at least 51% corn
  • Bourbon must be aged in charred oak barrels
  • Whiskey can be made anywhere in the world
  • Whiskey is made from various grains 

Taste

Bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels that give it notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Some other ways the taste is often described include baking species, black pepper, cocoa, and fruity. Bourbon tends to be the smoother option, with a softer taste that makes it a great entry-level sipper. Whiskey taste depends on the style, but it tends to have a woody or oaky flavor with added notes of spice, fruit, nuts, vanilla, or caramel. 

Now that you know the difference between bourbon and whiskey, we hope that you are better prepared to make your choice when visiting us at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore. As a local Lone Tree liquor store, we have everything you need to succeed! Visit us today. 

Unless you are a whiskey enthusiast, you may not know exactly why most whiskies sit in barrels before being sold. After all, what big of a difference could it make for a whiskey to stay in a barrel instead of being bottled right up? Well, it makes all the difference in the world, as barrels are what often make whiskey, whiskey. Your local Lone Tree experts at Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore are here to teach you why the whiskey barrel matters, and how it helps make the liquor you love! 

Aging

One of the main reasons whiskey sits in barrels for years is because the aging process provides its wonderful taste. The longer a whiskey sits inside a barrel, the more likely it is to taste great. As the barrel of whiskey ages, the wood allows vapor to pass outside the barrel while integrating oxygen into the aging process. Also, the wood barrels are often charred before use, which leaves a charcoal coating that acts as a filter, removing flavors that are not good on the palette.

Flavor

Wood barrels, which are often toasted and charred, give whiskey many of its well-known flavors. Alcohol content within whiskey acts as a solvent, which breaks down the compounds found in the wood. As this process occurs, the whiskey draws out naturally-occurring vanillins (oils), which alter the flavor profile of the liquor. This is what provides whiskey with its delicious oaky and smoky flavor notes. 

Color

Fun fact, all of a whiskey’s color comes from sitting inside a wooden barrel. As whiskey ages for years on end, it grows into a rich and dark color, which is one of the most notable aspects of this type of liquor. Seasonal changes affect the way whiskey interacts with the barrel, as changing temperatures and pressure moves the whisky in and out of the wood. The more of this that occurs, the darker a whiskey is likely to turn out. 

Factors that Affect the Barrel

There are many factors that affect the way in which a barrel will interact with whiskey, which include

  • The type of wood 
  • The barrel size
  • Toasting and charring 
  • Number of previous uses
  • Storage
  • Weather and temperature

Now that you know a bit more about whiskey, it’s time to give various types a try to find the best option for you! At Lukas Wine & Spirit Superstore, we have all of the whiskies you need for any occasion, whether you are looking for bourbon, Scotch, Japanese whiskey, Irish whiskey, or anything else. Visit us today! 

Celebrate with Lukas Liquors For National Happy Hour Day

Date

Mark your calendars! November 12th is National Happy Hour Day! Bring the happy hour home when you shop with Lukas Wine & Spirits Superstore. Whether you want a classic cocktail, a cold beer, or a glass of fine wine, National Happy Hour Day is the perfect time to raise a glass and toast to good times with family and friends. So don’t forget to take a few moments to celebrate this special day and enjoy a drink at home from Lukas Wine & Spirits Superstore in Lone Tree, Colorado. Cheers!

group of friends toasting with champagne and wine

A Drink For Everyone 

Everyone has a different taste when it comes to their preferred happy hour beverage. Luckily, Lukas Liquors offers a large selection of drink options so that everyone can enjoy happy hour. From seasonal liquors for festive cocktails to American brews to wines imported from all over the world, and even mixers, Lukas Liquors will have everything you need all under one roof. 

two women toasting glasses of wine during a meal

Low Prices, Big Smiles

Every day feels like happy hour when you shop with Lukas Liquors. We always have sales running on lots of our products so you can find what you are looking for at a great price. With our low prices, you can stock up for the upcoming holidays, family gatherings, or just a fun night in. If you’re looking for a smooth single malt whiskey, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, you can find great deals at Lukas Liquors. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual drinker, our sales offer the perfect way to save a little money and enjoy some delicious drinks for happy hour at home. 

group of friends sitting on a couch holding alcoholic beverages

Efficient Service

Our team at Lukas Liquors is dedicated to making this the happiest happy hour yet. Whether you shop online with our delivery service, or you come in-store, customer satisfaction is our priority. If you can’t find what you are looking for or would like suggestions for your cocktails, we are happy to help! 

group of friends holding different alcoholic beverages with fruit in them

Try Something New

Nothing says “happy hour” like the perfect drink. Whether you’re looking for something to cozy up with during the cooling temperatures, or a fun twist on a classic drink, there is a happy hour drink for every mood. For National Happy Hour Day this year, try something new! From mojitos and margaritas to creative concoctions like a spicy paloma or a fruity sangria, the possibilities are endless. Shop with Lukas Liquors and we will help you find the perfect happy-hour drink for you! During such a busy time of year with all of the upcoming holidays and events, make sure you take some time to unwind. National Happy Hour Day on November 12th is a great opportunity to relax in the calm before the storm of the holiday season. Celebrate this happy hour from the comfort of your home, with a Lukas Wine & Spirits Superstore beverage in hand. Happy hour has never been better! Shop online or in-store today!

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