Compare
Jim Beam Black vs Michter's US*1 Small Batch
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Michter's US*1 Small Batch reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a sourced, even-keeled blend.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Michter's US*1 Small Batch |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | 91.4 proof (45.7% ABV) +5 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$25 less | ~$45 – $55 |
- Jim Beam Black and Michter's US*1 Small Batch do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Michter's US*1 Small Batch
No notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Michter's US*1 Small Batch
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
fruit 3/5 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 5 out of 10
nuttiness 6/4 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/7 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 7 out of 10
oak 6/5 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 5 out of 10
spice 4/4 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 4 out of 10
heat 3/3 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Michter's US*1 Small Batch 3 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.
- Michter's US*1 Small Batch: Polished and easy-drinking, with butterscotch and stone fruit and very little rough edge. What you pay for is refinement and mouthfeel rather than age or proof.
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 Michter's US*1 Small Batch if you want a smooth, polished pour with a premium feel and no rough edges with the texture that comes from skipping chill filtration.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); neat, rocks (Michter's US*1 Small Batch).