If you’re a fan of sipping whiskey or love a good whiskey cocktail, you’ve probably noticed that bottles of bourbon and Tennessee whiskey share a lot of similarities.

They’re both American-made, have that rich, oaky flavor we love, and let’s be honest—either can be the star of your next Old Fashioned.

But what actually sets them apart? Is there a difference, or are they essentially the same spirit in different bottles?

Well, friend, grab a glass, because we’re diving into the smooth world of bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be the go-to expert at your next gathering!

Bourbon vs. Tennessee Whiskey: The Quick Rundown

Before we dive into the details, here’s the headline: All Tennessee whiskey is bourbon, but not all bourbon is Tennessee whiskey.

Confused yet? Don’t worry—it’s simpler than it sounds! Let’s break it down:

• Bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States, although Kentucky tends to be the star player.
• Tennessee whiskey must be made in (you guessed it) Tennessee and goes through an extra filtration process that gives it a slightly different flavor profile.

Okay, now let’s really get into it. There’s more to the story than just geography, and trust me, it’s worth savoring!

What Makes Bourbon… Well, Bourbon?

First, let’s talk bourbon. This beloved American spirit has some strict rules to follow in order to earn the name “bourbon.” It’s like the whiskey version of a secret club with its own membership criteria. Here’s what makes bourbon, bourbon:

• Made in the USA: While it’s often associated with Kentucky, bourbon can be made anywhere in the U.S. as long as it follows the rules.
• The Mash Bill: The mash (basically the mix of grains used to make the whiskey) must be at least 51% corn. The remaining 49% can be a mixture of other grains like rye, barley, or wheat. That corn gives bourbon its signature sweetness that makes it a favorite for cocktails.
• Aged in New Charred Oak Barrels: Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. It’s the charred barrel that gives bourbon that smoky, caramelized flavor and that beautiful amber color.
• Distillation and Proofing: Bourbon can’t be distilled to more than 160 proof and must be bottled at no less than 80 proof. And while that might sound technical, it’s really just about making sure your bourbon keeps its rich flavor without being too watered down.

How Is Tennessee Whiskey Different?

Now that we know what makes bourbon special, let’s take a look at Tennessee whiskey. You may have already guessed one of the big differences: it’s made in Tennessee!

But that’s not all. Tennessee whiskey follows all the rules for bourbon (remember that whole “all Tennessee whiskey is bourbon” thing?), but it adds one extra step:

• The Lincoln County Process: This is what makes Tennessee whiskey stand out. Before the whiskey is aged, it’s filtered through sugar maple charcoal in a process called the Lincoln County Process. This extra step mellows the whiskey, smoothing out some of the rough edges and giving it a slightly different taste—softer, with a bit of a sweet, smoky finish.

The best-known example of Tennessee whiskey? Jack Daniel’s, of course! It’s a household name for a reason.

Let’s Talk Flavor: How Do They Taste?

Alright, you’ve got the technical stuff down, but let’s get to the fun part: the flavor! After all, knowing how they taste is the best way to tell them apart (and the most delicious way, if we do say so).

• Tennessee Whiskey’s Flavor: Since Tennessee whiskey goes through the Lincoln County Process, the flavor tends to be a bit smoother and lighter than bourbon. You might notice that it’s still sweet like bourbon, but with a softer, mellower finish. It’s often described as more approachable for those new to whiskey, but don’t worry—it’s still got plenty of that classic whiskey bite!
• Bourbon’s Flavor: Thanks to that corn-heavy mash bill, bourbon is usually sweeter than other types of whiskey. You’ll often get notes of caramel, vanilla, and sometimes even a hint of fruit. Depending on how it’s aged, bourbon can have a toasty, smoky flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey in Cocktails

So, now that you know the differences in how they’re made and how they taste, let’s talk about how to use them in cocktails! Whether you’re a bourbon fan or a Tennessee whiskey loyalist, both make excellent bases for a variety of drinks.

Here are a few of our favorites:

The Orange Bourbon Sour is a vibrant twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, bringing together the rich, smooth sweetness of bourbon with bright citrus flavors.

Bourbon’s unique aging process in charred oak barrels imparts notes of caramel and vanilla, which blend beautifully with the tangy sweetness of fresh orange and lemon juices.

A touch of maple syrup adds depth and richness, while orange bitters and zesty orange sugar on the rim elevate each sip.

The Cherry Bourbon Smash is a bold and refreshing cocktail that perfectly showcases bourbon’s robust, smoky warmth. This drink starts with muddled fresh cherries, whose sweet and juicy flavors mix beautifully with the tartness of lemon and the cool, crisp essence of fresh mint.

The bourbon plays a starring role, adding rich vanilla and oak notes that harmonize with the fruit and herbal elements.

Enhanced by the caramel-like depth of Demerara syrup, this cocktail is as complex as it is satisfying.

The Little Bit Whiskey is the perfect introduction to whiskey for those who may be hesitant about the bold spirit. This cocktail balances the complex flavors of whiskey with sweet and citrusy notes, creating a smooth and approachable drink.

Pomegranate juice, honey, and lime provide a sweet and tart blend that softens the whiskey’s intensity without overshadowing its character.

The whiskey’s warmth and depth still shine through, making this cocktail a great gateway for anyone easing into whiskey-based drinks.

Garnished and served over ice, it’s a refreshing, crowd-pleasing sipper that might just turn whiskey skeptics into fans!

The Fashionable Lady Whiskey Sour is a delightful twist on the classic whiskey sour, combining the bold richness of whiskey with the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan syrup and a touch of peach liqueur.

This cocktail adds a unique Southern charm to the traditional whiskey sour, creating a smooth, flavorful drink with a hint of sweetness.

The foamy egg white adds a luscious texture, while the optional flower and Luxardo cherry garnish give it an elegant finish. Perfect for whiskey lovers looking to elevate their cocktail experience!

Which One Is Right for You?

So, should you reach for bourbon or Tennessee whiskey next time you’re at the bar? The answer, of course, depends on your personal taste! If you like your whiskey with a bit more of a bite and a sweeter flavor, bourbon might be your go-to.

If you prefer something a little smoother and mellower, Tennessee whiskey might be more your style.

But here’s the best part: there’s no wrong answer. The key to finding your favorite is tasting both and discovering which one speaks to you. And really, isn’t that the fun part?

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a die-hard bourbon fan or a Tennessee whiskey devotee, there’s no denying that both spirits offer something special.

They share a lot in common—especially since Tennessee whiskey is technically a type of bourbon—but that extra step in the Lincoln County Process gives Tennessee whiskey its own unique twist.

Next time you’re in the mood for a whiskey cocktail, why not try both? Host your own bourbon vs. Tennessee whiskey tasting and let your friends weigh in.

No matter which side you choose, you’ll be sipping on a rich piece of American history with every glass. Cheers!

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Author Meet Kelly Sparks, the creative mastermind and cocktail influencer behind @QueenBeeMixology. While mixology may not be her day job, it is her passion. As the Founder and CEO of VMG Studios, a successful and award-winning creative agency and video production studio, Kelly brings her expertise in creativity to the world of cocktails. As a self-taught and dedicated do-it-yourselfer, Kelly makes the journey to amazing cocktails accessible to everyone. And when she’s not hard at work, you can find her sipping a delicious drink with her husband.

To mix drinks like a pro, check out my go-to bar tools and glasses.