What Makes Canadian Whisky Different From Bourbon And American Whiskey?

Canadian whisky is one of the most underestimated styles of whisky in the world. Like Scotch whisky and bourbon, the category has been built on the back of well-known brands such as Crown Royal and Canadian Club.

Consumers who are newer to the style sometimes assume that Canadian whisky shares much of its DNA with bourbon. The reality, however, is very different. It is not simply a geographical border that separates the two styles. As it turns out, Canadian whisky’s production rules are also a little looser, to say the least.

So, let’s dive in and examine how these two styles of whisky compare.

What Is Canadian Whisky?

Like other whiskies named after their country of origin, Canadian whisky must be mashed, fermented, and distilled in Canada. It must also spend at least three years aging in wood. In that respect, its rules are relatively similar to those governing Scotch and Irish whiskey.

That is where many of the similarities begin to end, however. Canada’s regulations also leave the door open for considerable experimentation, although whether you think that is a good thing is up to you.

In Canadian whisky production, the different grains are typically distilled and aged separately before being brought together at the end. Many of the major brands use a base of corn whisky, which is then “flavored” with aged rye whisky, wheat whisky, or other whisky distillates.

Things then start to get a little wild with the 9.09% rule. Under Canadian whisky regulations, producers can add a limited amount of wine or spirits to the final product. If they want to introduce sherry, rum, or port flavors, for example, they can add some of that liquid directly.

Is this a good thing? Do we like it?

You could also ask whether this is really so different from the traces of sherry, rum, or port left behind in casks used to mature Scotch or Irish whiskey.

Why Does Canadian Whisky Taste Different From Bourbon?

Canadian whisky generally tastes much lighter and more approachable than bourbon. You could argue that it is one of the most accessible styles of whisky in the world because of the way it is produced, perhaps even more so than many triple-distilled Irish whiskeys.

It can still be sweet like bourbon or malty like single malt, but it often feels a little more easygoing.

Canadian Whisky vs. Bourbon: The Key Differences

It is easier to begin with bourbon because it has far more rules surrounding its production.

Bourbon must be made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak containers. There is technically no minimum aging period for bourbon, although it must be aged for at least two years to be labeled as straight bourbon.

Canadian whisky has no general requirement governing the percentage of each grain that must enter the final product. Certain named styles, such as single malt, may need to meet more specific requirements.

It also does not need to be matured in new, charred American oak. However, Canadian whisky must be aged in wood for a minimum of three years, much like Scotch and Irish whiskey.

Is Canadian Whisky Good?

It actually is.

I know that the 9.09% rule puts a lot of people off, and I have seen it used in some very old Canadian Club expressions. You could argue that it is no longer necessary in the modern whisky industry. I doubt removing the rule would do much harm to the biggest brands.

I imagine there were once some important commercial benefits behind the regulation, particularly when it came to trade with the United States. Putting all of that to one side, however, I do not mind a glass of Canadian Club. It is a very approachable whisky that works well for mixing and experimentation.

Beyond those old-school brands, a new wave of Canadian distilleries is approaching whisky production in a much more straightforward way. Producers such as Sons of Vancouver, Shelter Point, and Two Brewers are making wonderful whiskies that are produced entirely in Canada without relying on additional flavoring.

Why Canadian Whisky Deserves More Attention

I like Canadian whisky, and I honestly wish I could get more of it.

One of the supposed benefits of Brexit was going to be a closer trading relationship with countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. I am still waiting for the container ship filled with Canadian whisky to arrive on UK shores.

Anyway, if you can get your hands on a standard bottle of Canadian whisky, it is worth your time. Even if it does not become your favorite style, you should at least try it.

I love what Canada is becoming capable of when it comes to whisky. I just cannot wait to taste more of it.

Read the full article at What Makes Canadian Whisky Different From Bourbon And American Whiskey?