What’s the Difference Between Whiskey and Bourbon?

If you’ve ever wondered whether bourbon is a type of whiskey, or if whiskey and bourbon are just two words for the same thing, you’re not alone. In fact, “what’s the difference between whiskey and bourbon?” is one of the most searched spirits-related questions.
Here’s the short answer: All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.
Let’s break it down.

What Is Whiskey?

Whiskey (or whisky, depending on the country) is a distilled spirit made from fermented grain mash, aged in wooden barrels. It’s a broad category that includes many sub-types, like Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, Canadian whisky, and yes, bourbon.
The type of grain used, the production method, and where it’s made all impact the final flavor and classification.

What Is Bourbon?

Bourbon is a specific type of American whiskey, with a few legal requirements that set it apart:
•    Made in the USA (not just Kentucky!)
•    At least 51% corn in the mash bill
•    Aged in new, charred oak barrels
•    Distilled to no more than 160 proof
•    Bottled at 80 proof or higher

Bourbon tends to have a sweeter, fuller-bodied profile than other types of whiskey, think rich caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice.

So, What’s the Difference?

What About Non-Alcoholic Whiskey and Bourbon?

Whether you're cutting back, going sober, or just want something delicious without the alcohol, the demand for non-alcoholic whiskey and non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives is growing fast in the USA.

Enter: Lyre’s American Malt and Lyre’s Traditional Reserve

Meet Lyre’s American Malt

Flavor profile: Inspired by classic bourbon
Tasting notes: Toasted oak, vanilla, caramel, and spice
Best served: In an Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, or simply over ice

Lyre’s American Malt is crafted to mimic the warmth, depth, and complexity of traditional bourbon, without the alcohol. It’s perfect for your favorite Southern-style cocktails or just sipping slow on a summer evening.

Try it in a Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned with a dash of sugar syrup and bitters.

Meet Lyre’s Traditional Reserve

Flavor profile: Inspired by a traditional whisky
Tasting notes: Earthy peat, toasted cereal, subtle smoke
Best served: Neat, with soda, or in a zero-proof Rob Roy

For those who love the drier, smoky side of whiskey, Lyre’s Traditional Reserve brings all the complexity without the punch. It’s non-alcoholic, low in calories, and perfect for mindful sipping. 

Delicious on the rocks or try it in an Alcohol Free Sour with a dash of sugar syrup and bitters.

Available in the USA and Australia

Award-Winning Flavor, Zero Alcohol

Lyre’s American Malt isn’t just a fan favorite, it’s also an award-winner. In 2025, it took home Gold at The Spirits Business Low & No Masters, one of the industry's leading competitions for low and non-alcoholic spirits. Judges praised its rich, bourbon-style flavor, with layers of toasted oak, vanilla, and spice that hold up beautifully in classic cocktails. If you’re searching for the best non-alcoholic bourbon alternative, this one’s a proven crowd-pleaser.

Why Choose Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Alternatives?

• Zero alcohol, all flavor
• Ideal for sober-curious sippers
• Safe for social settings, weeknights, or designated drivers
• Crafted for cocktails, not compromises
• With Lyre’s, you can still enjoy your favorite whiskey or bourbon drinks, without the next-day regrets.

Final Pour: Whiskey or Bourbon, You Decide

Whether you lean towards the sweeter notes of bourbon or the smoky sophistication of a traditional whisky, thanks to Lyre’s, you don’t have to settle for flat imitations. You can enjoy premium, complex, and cocktail-worthy spirits, with zero alcohol.

Ready to explore?

Check out our full collection of non-alcoholic spirits and start sipping smarter today.

Shop Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Alternatives