Compare
Jim Beam Black vs Penelope Four Grain
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Penelope Four Grain reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a blender-built, even-keeled bottling.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Penelope Four Grain |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Four-Grain Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 74% corn, 7% rye, 16% wheat, 3% malted barley |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) +6 proof | 80 proof (40% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$10 less | ~$30 – $40 |
- Jim Beam Black and Penelope Four Grain do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Penelope Four Grain
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Penelope Four Grain
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
oak 6/3 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 3 out of 10
fruit 3/5 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 5 out of 10
nuttiness 6/4 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 4 out of 10
spice 4/3 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 3 out of 10
heat 3/2 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 2 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Penelope Four Grain 6 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
Barrel influence is the main separator.
- 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.
- Penelope Four Grain: A light, low-proof blend of corn, wheat, rye and barley. Honey, almond and orchard fruit keep it sweet and easy, though it reads young and thin when sipped neat.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Jim Beam Black if you want the Beam house character at its most affordable and easy-going with slightly more proof behind it.
- Go with Penelope Four Grain if you want an easy, light, honeyed bourbon that mixes well.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); highball, cocktails (Penelope Four Grain).