Compare
Jim Beam Black vs Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a modern, wheated craft expression.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Wheated Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 70% corn, 5% rye, 25% wheat |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) | 90 proof (45% ABV) +4 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$25 less | ~$45 – $55 |
- Jim Beam Black does 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.
Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon
Didn't care for this one.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
nuttiness 6/2 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 2 out of 10
oak 6/4 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 4 out of 10
heat 3/5 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 5 out of 10
fruit 3/4 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 6 out of 10
spice 4/4 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon 4 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
The house grain character is what splits these.
- 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.
- Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon: An organic, wheat-heavy bourbon from a Michigan craft distillery. It stays round and caramel sweet on the palate with a peppery edge, while the nose is quiet and still a little young.
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 Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon if you want an organic, Midwest craft wheater with a round, caramel-forward body.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); rocks, old-fashioned, cocktails (Journeyman Featherbone Bourbon).