The American whiskey industry continues to evolve. As a result, more whiskey enthusiasts are discovering a category that has generated significant excitement in recent years: American Single Malt.
Many bourbon drinkers encounter American Single Malt for the first time and immediately ask the same question: How does it compare to bourbon?
While both spirits are proudly American, they differ in ingredients, production methods, and flavor profiles. Understanding these differences can help whiskey enthusiasts expand their palates and discover new favorites.
At The Oak Raleigh, bourbon education is part of every guest experience. Our bourbon specialists enjoy introducing guests to a wide range of whiskey styles, including both bourbon and American Single Malt.
Key Takeaways
- Bourbon and American Single Malt use different grain recipes.
- Bourbon must contain at least 51% corn.
- American Single Malt uses 100% malted barley.
- Both are aged in oak barrels.
- Flavor profiles can vary significantly between the two categories.
- Neither style is better; each offers a unique whiskey experience.
What Is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a distinctly American whiskey that is subject to strict legal requirements.
To qualify as bourbon, a whiskey must:
- Be produced in the United States
- Contain at least 51% corn
- Age in new charred oak barrels
- Distill to no more than 160 proof
- Enter the barrel at no more than 125 proof
These requirements help create bourbon’s signature flavor profile.
Many bourbons feature notes of caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, oak, and baking spices. Depending on the mash bill, some may also exhibit fruity, peppery, or floral characteristics.
Because corn plays a dominant role in production, bourbon often presents a sweeter profile than many other whiskey categories.
What Is American Single Malt?
American Single Malt is one of the fastest-growing whiskey categories in the United States.
Unlike bourbon, American Single Malt uses 100% malted barley as its primary grain. A single distillery must produce the whiskey, which is where the term “single malt” originates.
While production standards continue to evolve, American single malts generally follow principles similar to traditional single malts produced in Scotland.
However, American producers often experiment with different barrel types, climates, and aging techniques. As a result, American Single Malt has developed its own unique identity.
What Does American Single Malt Taste Like?
One of the biggest differences between American Single Malt and bourbon is flavor.
American Single Malt often features notes such as:
- Toasted malt
- Honey
- Nuts
- Dried fruit
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Baking spices
- Oak
Some expressions also develop subtle smoke, depending on the production process.
Because malted barley creates a different foundation than corn, American Single Malt often delivers more grain-forward complexity and earthy characteristics.
How Does Bourbon Taste Different Than American Single Malt?
Bourbon typically emphasizes sweetness.
Many bourbon drinkers enjoy flavors such as:
- Caramel
- Vanilla
- Toffee
- Brown sugar
- Maple
- Cinnamon
- Cherry
- Oak
The use of new charred oak barrels also contributes significant flavor during aging.
As a result, bourbon often feels richer and sweeter than American Single Malt, especially for newer whiskey drinkers.
Which Whiskey Is Better?
The short answer is simple: neither.
The better question is which style you enjoy more.
Some whiskey enthusiasts prefer bourbon because of its sweetness and approachable flavor profile. Others enjoy the complexity and layered character of American Single Malt.
Many experienced whiskey drinkers appreciate both styles for different reasons.
For example, a bourbon may be perfect after dinner, while an American Single Malt may offer an interesting alternative when you’re looking to explore something different.
Personal preference ultimately matters more than category.
Why More Bourbon Lovers Are Exploring American Single Malt
American Single Malt appeals to many bourbon enthusiasts because it offers something familiar yet different.
Like bourbon, it showcases American craftsmanship, regional influences, and barrel aging. However, the malted barley creates a completely different tasting experience.
Many whiskey enthusiasts enjoy comparing the two categories side by side. This approach helps identify how grain selection influences aroma, flavor, mouthfeel, and finish.
For those interested in expanding their whiskey knowledge, American Single Malt is often a natural next step.
Bourbon Flights Make Comparison Easy
One of the best ways to understand the differences between American Single Malt and Bourbon is through direct comparison.
A whiskey flight allows you to taste multiple expressions side by side. Consequently, subtle differences become much easier to recognize.
Comparing a bourbon and an American Single Malt can reveal:
- Differences in sweetness
- Variations in mouthfeel
- Grain influence
- Oak characteristics
- Finish length
- Aroma complexity
Many guests discover new favorites after tasting the categories together.
Exploring Whiskey at The Oak Raleigh
At The Oak Raleigh, we believe whiskey education should be approachable and enjoyable.
Our extensive whiskey selection includes a variety of bourbon styles and American Single Malt expressions. More importantly, our bourbon specialists enjoy helping guests understand what makes each category unique.
Whether you’re new to whiskey or have spent years exploring different bottles, there is always something new to learn.
The best whiskey journey starts with curiosity and a willingness to explore.
Experience Bourbon and Whiskey Education at The Oak Raleigh
The discussion of American Single Malt vs Bourbon highlights just how diverse American whiskey has become.
While bourbon remains one of America’s most beloved spirits, American Single Malt continues to earn attention from enthusiasts seeking new flavors and experiences.
Fortunately, you don’t have to choose one over the other.
Exploring both categories can deepen your appreciation for whiskey and help you discover styles you may not have considered before.
Reserve Your Table Today
Ready to expand your whiskey knowledge?
Join us for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch and explore one of Raleigh’s premier bourbon and whiskey destinations. Our knowledgeable bourbon specialists can help guide your tasting experience and introduce you to new styles, flavor profiles, and whiskey traditions.
Make your reservation today and discover your next favorite pour at The Oak Raleigh.