September is back-to-school month. We get back into the swing of things, pull out our warmer jackets and get ready to enjoy some good comfort food. But did you know that it’s also National Bourbon Heritage Month? It’s a great opportunity to celebrate this American whisky, known for its vanilla sweetness, caramelized notes and smooth texture.
The only downside is that, in these times of trade tensions, bourbon is absent from whisky merchants in Canada, but some bars and restaurants still stock it. But never mind! While the bottles may be hard to find, its heritage continues to shine. . . in the heart of Scotland. How? Thanks to the ex-bourbon casks in which many Scotch whiskies are aged and develop their unique personalities.
Bourbon vs. Scotch: two styles, two worlds
Bourbon and Scotch are sometimes confused, but they are two very distinct worlds.
Bourbon, produced mainly in Kentucky, draws its richness from corn. This gives it a smooth, sweet and indulgent profile, with aromas of honey, vanilla, caramel and even ripe fruits such as banana or candied cherry. Round and generous, it is an easy-drinking whisky, especially for those looking for a velvety texture.
Scotch, on the other hand, is made from malted barley and is distinguished by a drier and more complex approach. Its flavours vary greatly depending on the region of Scotland: some expressions are fruity and light, others smoky and marked by peat. The casks used play an essential role—and those that contain bourbon bring precisely those vanilla and spicy notes that charm connoisseurs.
In short, when bourbon lends its casks to Scotch, it’s a meeting of character: the elegance of Scottish malt enriched by the rich accents of American oak.
A few Scotch whiskies aged in bourbon casks to discover
To taste this transatlantic marriage, here are a few bottles to add to your tasting list:
Glencadam 15 years
Creamy and refined, with notes of tree fruits, vanilla and almond.
Octomore 15.3 (Bruichladdich)
A peat monster perfectly balanced by hints of dried fruit and orange zest.
Learn more on Bruichladdich in our article
Glenmorangie Original (10 years)
A classic: citrus fruits, flowers, peach and vanilla. Accessible and elegant.
The Glenmorangie 10 may be harder to find as it has been replaced by the Glenmorangie 12, also aged in bourbon casks.
Tobermory 10 years
Lemon, honey and gingerbread: an underrated whisky that deserves to be discovered.
The Tobermory 10 has since been replaced by the Tobermory 12, also aged in bourbon casks.
Auchentoshan American Oak Reserve Single Malt
Triple distilled and aged in first-fill bourbon casks. Notes of caramel, lemon and spices.
Glenfiddich 14 years Bourbon barrel
A rich and smooth whisky with a caramelized flavour and delicious woody spices that highlight its bourbon cask finish.
Bourbon: The Elegance of a Legacy
So, next time you visit the SAQ, LCBO or any other whisky retailer and bourbon is in short supply, treat yourself to a Scotch aged in ex-bourbon casks. You’ll find that warm vanilla and caramel flavour you love so much, but with the complexity and elegance unique to Scotch whisky.
Because, after all, the beauty of spirits lies in their ability to reinvent themselves across borders.
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