Which is better in a Manhattan?

Classic recipes use rye for a drier, spicier drink. Bourbon makes it rounder and sweeter. Neither is wrong.

Is rye the same as Canadian whisky?

Not quite. Canadian whisky is often called rye out of habit, but it may contain little rye grain. American rye must be at least 51% rye.

Bourbon vs rye: what's the difference?

Bourbon is mostly corn, so it tastes sweeter and rounder, with caramel and vanilla, while rye whiskey is mostly rye grain, so it's drier, spicier and more peppery.

Bourbon

Easy

Boozy

Tart

Sweet

Not bitter

Bracing

Sweet, round and warm, like caramel corn in a barrel.

Rye

Easy

Boozy

Tart

Sweet

Not bitter

Bracing

Drier and spicier, with a peppery kick.

The real difference

Both are American whiskeys aged in new charred oak barrels, which is where the vanilla and caramel come from. Bourbon must be at least 51% corn, which adds sweetness. Rye must be at least 51% rye grain, which brings spice, pepper and a drier edge. Many bourbons use some rye too.

Side by side

BourbonRye

Main grainCorn, at least 51%Rye, at least 51%

TastesSweet, caramel, vanillaSpicy, peppery, drier

On a menuOld fashioneds, whiskey sours, neatManhattans, Sazeracs, old fashioneds

Which to order

Order bourbon if you want something sweet, smooth and easy to sip.
Order rye if you like a drier whiskey with some bite.

Quick questions

Which is better in a Manhattan?: Classic recipes use rye for a drier, spicier drink. Bourbon makes it rounder and sweeter. Neither is wrong.
Is rye the same as Canadian whisky?: Not quite. Canadian whisky is often called rye out of habit, but it may contain little rye grain. American rye must be at least 51% rye.