Built For Weekend

If you've spent any time at a cocktail bar or browsing drink recipes online, you've probably noticed one thing: bourbon is everywhere. From Old Fashioneds to Whiskey Sours, Mint Juleps to Manhattans, bourbon dominates the whiskey-based cocktail world — especially in the U.S. But does that mean bourbon is always the best choice for cocktails? The short answer: not necessarily. Bourbon is beloved for good reason — its sweet, full-bodied flavor makes it versatile and crowd-pleasing. But other types of whiskey, like rye, Irish, and even Scotch, bring their own unique character to the shaker and mixing glass. Depending on the drink you're making and your personal taste preferences, there may be better (or at least equally great) alternatives to bourbon for specific cocktail styles. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes bourbon such a common choice in cocktails, but also why it's worth branching out. We’ll compare how different whiskies interact ...

Whether you’re new to whiskey or simply curious about the differences between various styles, exploring Scotch, Irish, and American whiskey is a flavorful way to begin your journey. Each type brings its own heritage, production methods, and tasting profiles to the glass — and knowing the distinctions can deepen your appreciation for what you’re sipping. While whiskey (or whisky, depending on the region) is a broad category, each country imparts a unique identity through its ingredients, distillation process, and aging style. Scotch is often known for its peaty smokiness and regional subtleties. Irish whiskey tends to be smooth and approachable, ideal for those easing into whiskey for the first time. And American whiskey — particularly bourbon and rye — is bold, sweet, and rooted in a frontier spirit. This guide is crafted for beginners who want to develop their palate and gain a working understanding of how Scotch, Irish, and American whiskeys differ in tast...