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Jim Beam Black vs Redemption Bourbon
On paper Jim Beam Black and Redemption Bourbon are near neighbours — both high-rye bourbons — so personal preference more than spec is what actually decides it.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Redemption Bourbon |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | High-Rye Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) +2 proof | 84 proof (42% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 | ~$25 – $32 |
- 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.
Redemption Bourbon
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Redemption Bourbon
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
spice 4/7 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 7 out of 10
nuttiness 6/3 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 3 out of 10
oak 6/4 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 4 out of 10
fruit 3/5 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 5 out of 10
sweetness 6/5 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 5 out of 10
heat 3/3 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Redemption Bourbon 3 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
The gap between these two is mostly about spice.
- 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.
- Redemption Bourbon: Straightforward sourced MGP at a modest proof, and about as clear a reference sample of the high-rye MGP profile as you can buy. Thin neat, but a reliable and inexpensive cocktail base.
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 Redemption Bourbon if you want an inexpensive, unambiguous example of the MGP high-rye style for mixing.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); old-fashioned, cocktails, highball (Redemption Bourbon).