Bourbon, Rye, or Scotch? Know the Difference Before You Order in Prescott
Whiskey Wisdom Starts on Whiskey Row
Prescott, Arizona isn't just a mountain town with charm—it's a historic haven for whiskey lovers. Nestled in the heart of downtown is Whiskey Row, a stretch of saloons that dates back to the 1800s and still hums with the lively spirit of the Old West. Once a watering hole for cowboys, miners, and outlaws, today it’s a bucket-list destination for locals and tourists looking to sip something with soul.
Curious about the real stories behind Prescott’s wild saloon days and whiskey? Check out our blog: The History of Whiskey in Prescott: From Grain to Gold on Whiskey Row
Today, locals and visitors alike still flock here for that authentic Western charm—and, of course, the whiskey.
If you're heading out for a night on Whiskey Row or stepping into one of Prescott’s beloved modern saloons like Black Vulture Saloon, knowing your way around a whiskey menu can elevate your experience from “just a drink” to a fully immersive tasting journey. After all, not all whiskeys are created equal—and choosing between Bourbon, Rye, or Scotch can dramatically change the flavor, body, and feel of your drink.
This guide is your go-to resource to understand the differences between Bourbon, Rye, and Scotch, how each is made, and what flavors to expect. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey fan or brand new to the scene, you'll walk away knowing exactly what to order next time you’re posted up at the bar in Prescott.
And yes—we’ll connect these styles to what we serve at Black Vulture Saloon, so you can make a bold and informed choice the next time you raise a glass in the wild, whiskey-soaked heart of Arizona.
What’s in a Name? Understanding Whiskey, Whisky, and Regional Differences
Before you order your next pour at Black Vulture Saloon, you’ll want to crack the code behind one of whiskey’s oldest debates: is it whiskey or whisky? And does the spelling actually matter? Short answer: yes—but not in the way you might think.
The difference in spelling—“whiskey” (with an e) vs. “whisky” (without)—typically comes down to the country of origin.
“Whiskey” is the standard spelling in the United States and Ireland.
“Whisky” is used in Scotland, Canada, and Japan.
But it’s not just a linguistic quirk. That subtle spelling difference hints at how the spirit is made, what grains are used, how long it’s aged, and what flavors you’ll taste in the glass.
“Whiskey isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s a story told through grain, barrel, and time. Whether you’re drinking an American Bourbon or a smoky Islay Scotch, the differences are more than regional—they’re personal.”
— Chris Fletcher, Master Distiller at Jack Daniel’s [Source: Forbes Interview, 2023]
To help decode these regional nuances, here’s a quick reference table:
Whiskey vs. Whisky: A Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Category | Whiskey (with an “e”) | Whisky (no “e”) |
|---|---|---|
| Countries | USA, Ireland | Scotland, Canada, Japan |
| Popular Types | Bourbon, Rye, Irish Whiskey | Scotch, Canadian Whisky, Japanese Whisky |
| Grains Used | Corn (Bourbon), Rye (Rye), Barley (Irish) | Barley (Scotch), Rye, Corn (Canada) |
| Flavor Profiles | Sweet, spicy, bold, often oak-forward | Smoky, malty, earthy, delicate to intense |
| Aging Methods | New, charred American oak barrels | Used barrels (including ex-Bourbon or Sherry) |
| Spelling | Whiskey | Whisky |
At Black Vulture Saloon, we carry a well-balanced selection from both traditions:
If you're into sweet and smooth, you'll love our American Bourbons.
Prefer something peaty and complex? Ask about our curated lineup of Single Malt Scotches.
Want a bold rye bite with that dry finish? We’ve got that covered, too.
Knowing the difference in name is your first step toward making a choice you’ll savor—because the more you understand the spirit, the more you enjoy the pour.
Bourbon: America’s Sweetheart
Let’s start with the crowd-pleaser. Bourbon is smooth, approachable, and rich in flavor—basically the whiskey world’s warm welcome mat. It’s the one most people are familiar with, and for good reason: it’s bold without being harsh, sweet without being sugary, and has enough depth to keep even seasoned drinkers coming back.
By law, Bourbon must be made in the United States (though most comes from Kentucky), and it has to be at least 51% corn. The rest of the mash bill is usually a mix of rye, wheat, and malted barley. That high corn content is what gives Bourbon its signature sweetness—think vanilla, caramel, and warm baking spices. But there’s more going on under the surface depending on how it’s made.
It also has to be aged in new, charred oak barrels, which is what gives it that rich amber color and toasty, woody notes. The American climate, especially in places like Kentucky and Tennessee, means that Bourbon ages more quickly than spirits made in cooler regions. So, you’ll find that even 4- to 6-year-old Bourbons can pack in a ton of flavor.
One thing that surprises people? The vast range of flavors across Bourbon styles. A high-rye Bourbon might give you a bit of spice and heat. A wheated Bourbon (like Maker’s Mark or Weller) tends to be softer and smoother. And single barrel or small batch expressions often have a more intense, complex profile compared to large-scale blends.
Did You Know?
While there’s no minimum aging requirement to be called Bourbon (as long as it touches new charred oak), to be labeled straight Bourbon, it needs at least 2 years in the barrel—and if it’s under 4, the label has to tell you.
At Black Vulture Saloon, we carry a Bourbon lineup that hits all the right notes—from the reliable smoothness of Buffalo Trace, to richer, spicier pours like Knob Creek and the unique desert-aged character of Doc Holliday Bourbon. Whether you're sipping it neat, over a single rock, or mixed into a killer Old Fashioned, Bourbon’s versatility is part of what makes it such a staple behind our bar.
And if you’re new to whiskey altogether? Bourbon’s your safest—and tastiest—starting point. You’ll get all the flavor without the burn, and you can branch out from there.
Rye: Spicy and Bold
If Bourbon is the smooth talker, Rye whiskey is the one that walks in with a little more edge and attitude. It’s drier, spicier, and has a real bite to it—in the best way possible. Whether you're sipping it neat or mixing it into a classic cocktail like a Manhattan, Rye brings character that Bourbon just doesn't try to compete with.
To be called Rye whiskey in the U.S., it must be made from at least 51% rye grain, aged in new charred oak barrels, and distilled to no more than 160 proof. That rye grain is what gives the spirit its signature flavors: bold spice, black pepper, cinnamon, and sometimes a touch of herbaceous or floral brightness. It’s a whiskey that doesn’t hold back.
The rest of the mash bill—usually a combination of corn and malted barley—can shift things slightly. A high-rye Rye will lean even harder into that spicy, crackling energy, while others smooth things out with a little more corn sweetness.
“Rye whiskey doesn’t whisper—it speaks up. That snap of spice and citrus zest makes it stand out in a cocktail or all on its own.”
— Noah Rothbaum, co-author of The Oxford Companion to Spirits & Cocktails
It’s also worth noting the difference between American and Canadian Rye. In Canada, the rules are looser—Rye can be more of a style than a strict grain content. Many Canadian whiskies are smoother, lighter, and often blended. In contrast, American Ryes tend to hit harder and show off that grain-forward intensity.
At Black Vulture Saloon, we’ve got a strong Rye lineup for those who like a little more fire in their glass. Try Bulleit Rye if you want a well-balanced intro with spice and dried fruit notes. Looking for something more powerful? WhistlePig PiggyBack packs serious rye flavor at 100 proof—it’s bold, warm, and totally sip-worthy.
Rye is also a favorite among bartenders for a reason: it’s a cocktail workhorse. It holds its own in stirred classics and gives every drink a little edge. If you're unsure what to try, ask us for a Rye flight or a custom recommendation—we’re always happy to match your mood with the right pour.
Scotch: Scotland’s Complex Classic
Scotch is where things get a little more mysterious—in the best way. If Bourbon is sweet and Rye is spicy, Scotch whisky is all about complexity, depth, and region-specific character. It’s whisky that tells a story of place, weather, and time in the barrel.
To legally be called Scotch, a whisky must be:
Made in Scotland
Distilled mostly from malted barley
Aged in oak barrels for at least three years
Bottled at no less than 40% ABV
But what really makes Scotch stand out? The wide range of flavors you’ll find depending on where in Scotland it’s made—and how it’s matured.
Speyside whiskies (like Glenlivet) are often soft, fruity, and floral—great for first-timers.
Islay whiskies are famous for their intense peat smoke, brine, and earthy funk (think campfire on the coast).
Highland whiskies run the spectrum, offering everything from heathered sweetness to rich spice.
Unlike Bourbon, which is aged in new oak barrels, Scotch is usually aged in used barrels, including ex-Bourbon and ex-sherry casks. This creates more nuanced, layered flavors and a mellower oak presence—even after aging for 10, 12, or 18 years.
“Scotch is a spirit of place. Every dram tells you where it came from—the brine of the coast, the smoke of the peat, the clean cut of Highland air.”
— Dave Broom, author of The World Atlas of Whisky
At Black Vulture Saloon, we keep a few standout Scotches behind the bar. You’ll find:
Johnnie Walker Black Label – a smoky, blended Scotch with spice, vanilla, and a lingering finish.
Glenlivet 12 – floral and fruit-forward with notes of pear, citrus, and light oak.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label – an ultra-smooth, luxury blend that’s silky with hints of hazelnut, honey, and soft smoke.
And for something that hits the same smoky notes but with a local twist, we feature Bond Fire Whisky, an Arizona-made single malt from Grand Canyon Distillery. It’s crafted with 100% malted barley and smoked over applewood, aged in new American oak, and delivers a rich, full-bodied flavor with a campfire finish. Not technically Scotch, but absolutely worth sipping if you’re into big, smoky profiles.
So whether you're drawn to the complexity of a Highland malt or curious about peat-heavy pours, there’s a Scotch—or Scotch-style—for every level of drinker. And at Black Vulture, we’re here to help you explore it all, one dram at a time.
How to Choose: Matching Your Taste to the Right Whiskey
Not sure which whiskey to order when you slide up to the bar at Black Vulture? You’re not alone—and the good news is, you don’t have to be an expert to find a pour you’ll love. It’s all about knowing what kind of flavor experience you’re after. Here’s a quick guide to help steer you in the right direction:
→ Like it smooth and a little sweet?
Go for Bourbon.
With its high corn content, Bourbon brings rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak—the kind of whiskey that feels warm and comforting without overpowering your palate. It’s perfect for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.
🖤 Try at Black Vulture Saloon:
Buffalo Trace – mellow, approachable, and crowd-pleasing
Knob Creek – full-bodied with a deeper spice and oak bite
→ Want something bolder with a spicy kick?
Lean into Rye.
Rye whiskey is drier, spicier, and brings a touch of heat—making it great for those who like their drinks with a little edge. You’ll pick up notes like black pepper, cinnamon, and sometimes even citrus or herbs.
🖤 Try at Black Vulture Saloon:
Bulleit Rye – balanced with fruit and spice
WhistlePig PiggyBack – 100 proof, big rye flavor, serious character
→ Craving complexity or smoky depth?
Explore Scotch.
Scotch whisky covers a wide range of flavors depending on the region—but expect everything from light florals to campfire smoke and dried fruits. It’s a deeper dive into the whiskey world, but absolutely worth it.
🖤 Try at Black Vulture Saloon:
Glenlivet 12 – easy-drinking and bright
Johnnie Walker Black Label – smoky with vanilla and spice
Bond Fire Whisky (AZ) – bold, smoky, and totally unique
🥃 Pro Tip:
New to Scotch but usually a Bourbon drinker? Try something aged in ex-Bourbon barrels (like Glenlivet 12) for familiar notes in a slightly different accent.
Still not sure? That’s where we come in. The bar team at Black Vulture loves helping guests explore—whether you're chasing a specific flavor or just want to try something new. Ask for a flight, sip side by side, and see what speaks to your taste buds.
Tips for Drinking Whiskey Like You Mean It
Whiskey can feel intimidating if you’re new to it—but here’s the truth: drinking whiskey isn’t about rules. It’s about what you like. Whether you’re sitting at Black Vulture Saloon in Prescott or exploring the historic bars along Whiskey Row, here are a few tips to help you drink whiskey with confidence, curiosity, and a little swagger.
Taste First, Talk Later
When you get your whiskey, take a moment. Look at the color. Give it a swirl. Take a small sniff (mouth open helps!), then sip—slowly. Good whiskey unfolds over time. You don’t have to rush it or talk about tasting notes like you’re auditioning for a spirits commercial. Just notice what you enjoy. Is it sweet? Spicy? Smoky?
Pro tip: If you’re new to sipping whiskey, don’t go for the “neat” option right away. Ask for a drop or two of water—it helps open up the flavors and smooth out the burn.
There’s No Wrong Way to Drink Whiskey
Want it on the rocks? Go for it. Prefer it in a cocktail? Excellent choice. Like it with soda? We won’t judge. The best way to drink whiskey is however you actually enjoy it. Ignore anyone who tries to “correct” your order. Your drink, your rules.
“The snobbery ruins the spirit. Let people enjoy what they like.” — An actual bartender who’s seen it all
Explore by Style or Region
Once you’ve had a few pours, you might start to notice preferences: maybe you lean toward high-rye Bourbons or smoky Islay Scotches. Ask your bartender for something similar—or something that pushes you just a little further. At Black Vulture Saloon, we offer whiskey flights tailored to taste, so you can compare and discover without committing to a full pour.
Need a crash course before diving in? This quick Scotch region breakdown is a great resource to explore the wide flavor spectrum Scotch offers.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
No one’s born knowing the difference between single malt and blended grain. Don’t be shy about asking your bartender what they recommend. We live for that. Seriously—our team at Black Vulture has tried everything we pour, and we love getting people excited about what’s in their glass.
Pace Yourself—This Is a Sip Game
Unlike tequila shots, whiskey isn’t about speed. It’s a slow-sip situation. If you’re drinking neat, a standard pour is usually 1.5 to 2 oz—plenty to keep you busy for a while. Add a splash of water or a large cube if it feels too strong. Whiskey’s layered for a reason—let it breathe, let it build.
So whether you’re starting your whiskey journey or brushing up on the classics, remember: you don’t need to memorize every distillery name or tasting note. You just need to be curious, open, and willing to taste. And if you’re in Prescott? Swing by Black Vulture Saloon—we’ll pour you something worth sipping.
Whiskey Isn’t Complicated—It’s Just Personal
At the end of the day, whether you’re sipping sweet Bourbon, spicy Rye, or smoky Scotch, the best whiskey is the one that matches your taste—and the best place to drink it is where you feel comfortable exploring. Prescott’s rich whiskey culture, especially along iconic Whiskey Row, offers a one-of-a-kind setting to taste, learn, and enjoy.
At Black Vulture Saloon, we’ve built a whiskey menu that balances familiarity with discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned Scotch collector or a total beginner who just wants to know what makes Rye so spicy, we’re here to pour you something you’ll actually enjoy—without the pretension.
So next time you’re in Prescott, step inside, take a seat, and let your next favorite pour find you. We’ve got the glass ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Start with Bourbon—it’s smooth, sweet, and easy to love. Flavors like caramel, vanilla, and warm oak make it super approachable. At Black Vulture Saloon, we recommend trying Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark for a solid first pour.
-
It’s all about origin, ingredients, and barrel aging:
Scotch: Made in Scotland, often from malted barley, aged in used barrels. Flavor ranges from smoky and earthy to light and fruity.
Bourbon: Made in the USA, with at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak. Tends to be sweeter and bolder.
Curious? Try a side-by-side tasting at Black Vulture and see what your palate prefers.
-
Nope—great whiskey makes great cocktails. Whether it’s a Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or a custom house mix, the key is balance. Our bartenders at Black Vulture Saloon love crafting whiskey cocktails that showcase the spirit without overpowering it.scription text goes here
