What type of whiskey is primarily made from corn?

Bourbon is primarily made from corn, which is defined by its grain mixture containing at least 51% corn in order to be classified as bourbon. This high corn content gives bourbon its characteristic sweetness and rich flavor profile, which distinguishes it from other types of whiskey. The production process also includes specific aging requirements, where bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels, further contributing to its distinct taste.

Rye whiskey, on the other hand, is primarily made from rye grain and tends to have a spicier flavor. Tennessee whiskey follows similar regulations to bourbon but requires charcoal filtering known as the Lincoln County Process. Scotch, originating from Scotland, is typically made from malted barley and adheres to its own legal definitions and production methods. These distinctions help clarify why bourbon stands out as the whiskey that is primarily made from corn.