Compare
Jim Beam Black vs Jefferson's Reserve Very Old
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Jefferson's Reserve Very Old reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a sourced, even-keeled blend.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Jefferson's Reserve Very Old |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Traditional Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | Not disclosed |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) | 90.2 proof (45.1% ABV) +4 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$35 less | ~$55 – $65 |
- Jim Beam Black and Jefferson's Reserve Very Old do not publish an official mash bill.
- US shelf prices as of 2026-08; they vary widely by market.
AG’s Rating and AG’s Notes
Jim Beam Black
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Jefferson's Reserve Very Old
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Jefferson's Reserve Very Old
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
fruit 3/6 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 6 out of 10
nuttiness 6/3 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 3 out of 10
spice 4/5 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 5 out of 10
oak 6/7 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 7 out of 10
heat 3/4 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Jefferson's Reserve Very Old 6 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
The fruit-versus-grain contrast drives this one.
- Jim Beam Black: The extra-aged version of the white label and a considerable step up for a few dollars more. Softer and rounder than Knob Creek with the same family peanut note, at a proof that keeps everything gentle.
- Jefferson's Reserve Very Old: The older, drier sibling of Jefferson's Very Small Batch. Buttery toffee and dried fruit sit on a firm, slightly smoky oak backbone, and the finish turns peppery and long.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Jim Beam Black if you want the Beam house character at its most affordable and easy-going.
- Go with Jefferson's Reserve Very Old if you want a mature, oak-driven blend with dried fruit and a dry, peppery finish at an easy proof.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); neat, rocks (Jefferson's Reserve Very Old).