Main Difference
Alcohol based drinks are very common in most parts of Europe and America. There are different forms in which they are available and have distinct taste based on the preparation and the ingredients used. The main difference between Whiskey and Brandy is the source from which they are produced. The first one is formed with the help of fresh grains which are fermented and can include barley, corn, rye, and wheat. On the other hand, Brandy is the drink which is produced from pure grapes in most cases while other fruits can also be used.
Comparison Chart
| Basis of Distinction | Whiskey | Brandy |
| Alcohol | 40-50% | 40-60% |
| Constituent | Grains such as barley, corn, rye, and wheat. | Grapes mostly, but other fruits can be used. |
| Drying Process | Dried in wooden crates to give then a distinctive taste. | Dried at home with local processes. |
| Prices | High | Low |
| Preparation | Globally | Locally |
| Utilization | Usually during the daytime. | Usually at night after dinner. |
| Maturity | At least 2 years. | At least 1 year. |
Whiskey
It is one of the most famous alcoholic beverages around the world and is easily distinguished by its taste. It is made from fresh grains which are fermented grain mash. There is no particular type of seeds that are used in making it, but it can be any kind such as barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The best part about them which gives them the uniqueness is that they are placed in wooden boxes and then let to become old, and that is why they are unyielding. They are regulated at stable levels around the world. The word whiskey has been originated from the Gaelic word use which means water, distilled alcohol was the first one available in the market, and that is why the name might have originated. It is known as Whisky as well, and the difference arises depending on the location of the person who is speaking it. The most common name is Whiskey which is mostly spoken by Europeans while the word Whisky is more formal in the American dialect. The production process is relatively long where the distillation starts at the initial stage and usually still made of copper are used, sulfur based compounds were also used, but they used to make the drink unpleasant. The standard equipment which is used for such purposes is known as a pot still. Then the next process is aging, it does not take place in the bottle but mostly the there is a cask present in which they are matured. The more the liquid comes in connection with the cask the better the taste is supposed to be.” Whiskey or whisky” It is here that one of the main differences occurs. generally, Scottish and American whiskies are distilled twice and Irish whiskey is distilled three times (there are exceptions to the rule, in all cases). Distilling three times produces a lighter and smoother spirit.
Brandy
This is another type of alcoholic drink which is mostly famous among families as it is consumed after dinner. It gained popularity during the last century as a drink which was required for dinner instead of the usual tea of cold beverages. It is not lighter by any means since it contains around 40% spirit by volume and is produced by distilling the wine. They are of different types, some are matured in wooden caskets, some are done by synthetic methods which can change the taste. This kind of drink was introduced as soon as the process of distillation was discovered. Initially, it was seen as a method by which the juice could be preserved, but then some of the drinks were kept there for a long time then the change of taste was observed and soon mass production of it was introduced in the market. It is available in a wide range since it is not international, most countries, even cities will have their own unique taste or color depending on the culture. Artificial color is added to them to give it a distinct taste and look. There are two phases in which it is distilled. The first one is the one in which large part of water and solids is removed from the solution and then the deep wine is produced. This has around 30% of alcohol. In the next stage, in the next process, the next one will be distilled in brandy, and that will then bring the concentration to 40%. It is also produced with grapes and other fruits and is, therefore, famous.
Key Differences
- The percentage of alcohol in Whiskey is around 40-50% while the percentage of alcohol in Brandy is around 40-60% depending on the type.
- Whiskey is formed with the help of fresh grains which are fermented and can include barley, corn, rye, and wheat while Brandy is the drink which is produced from pure grapes in most cases while other fruits can also be used.
- Whiskey is dried in wooden crates to give then a distinctive taste while Brandy is prepared on local levels which can have different tastes.
- Whiskey is usually costlier than Brandy because of its international nature while Brandy is produced locally so the prices can vary from low to high.
- It takes more than 2 years for a whiskey to mature to some extent while it takes around one year for a brandy to mature at a drinkable level.
- Artificial color is added to them to give Brand a distinct look while no artificial products are added to change the taste.