World Whisky Day 2022: Best American whisky for an alternative to bourbon

Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for insider tips and product reviews from our shopping experts Sign up for our free IndyBest email Sign up for our free IndyBest email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy When it comes to American whiskey, the style you’re most likely to encounter is Bourbon – perhaps dressed up with bitters and a slice of orange in an Old Fashioned cocktail; sweetened and garnished with mint in a Julep; or simply served on the rocks. Straight Rye Whiskey is the most commonly available outside of the Bourbon market, with the rye’s spicy character making it a punchier choice for cocktails. But with a little more exploration you’ll also find whiskey made from malted barley – along the lines of our more familiar single malt whiskies – besides some that use less celebrated grains such as wheat, oats and millet. If you want to start your American whiskey adventure with a bourbon then check out our round-up of the best bourbons; but if you want to venture beyond the Bourbon then read on…