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Jim Beam Black vs Old Forester 86 Proof
On paper Jim Beam Black and Old Forester 86 Proof are near neighbours — both high-rye bourbons — so personal preference more than spec is what actually decides it.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Old Forester 86 Proof |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | High-Rye Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malted barley |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) | 86 proof (43% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 | ~$20 – $26 |
- 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.
Old Forester 86 Proof
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Old Forester 86 Proof
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
nuttiness 6/3 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 3 out of 10
oak 6/4 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 4 out of 10
fruit 3/5 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 5 out of 10
spice 4/5 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 5 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 6 out of 10
heat 3/3 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Old Forester 86 Proof 3 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
Nutty, grain-driven character is the divider.
- 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.
- Old Forester 86 Proof: The entry bottling and the cheapest way to meet the Old Forester banana-and-caramel signature. Thin at 86 proof, but it costs very little and mixes well.
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 Old Forester 86 Proof if you want the Old Forester house character at the lowest possible price.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); cocktails, highball, rocks (Old Forester 86 Proof).