How does Tennessee whiskey differ from Kentucky bourbon?

Tennessee whiskey is distinct from Kentucky bourbon primarily because it must undergo a charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process. This step involves filtering the spirit through charcoal before aging, which contributes to a smoother flavor profile and is a defining characteristic of Tennessee whiskey. While all Tennessee whiskeys are technically bourbons, they must adhere to this additional requirement to be labeled as Tennessee whiskey, setting them apart from Kentucky bourbons, which do not have this filtration requirement.

Kentucky bourbon, on the other hand, is defined by its production process and ingredients but does not require the charcoal filtration. The other aspects of whiskey production, such as barrel aging, geographical origin, and grain composition, do not uniquely distinguish Tennessee whiskey from Kentucky bourbon in the same way that the charcoal filtering does.