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Jim Beam Black vs Rowan's Creek
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Rowan's Creek reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a traditional, even-keeled Kentucky staple.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Rowan's Creek |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | 100.1 proof (50.0% ABV) +14 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$20 less | ~$40 – $50 |
- Jim Beam Black and Rowan's Creek do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Rowan's Creek
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Rowan's Creek
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
nuttiness 6/2 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 2 out of 10
spice 4/7 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 7 out of 10
oak 6/4 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 4 out of 10
heat 3/5 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 5 out of 10
fruit 3/4 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Rowan's Creek 6 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.
- Rowan's Creek: A small-batch Willett bottling that tastes rye-forward and herbal. Honey and caramel sit under mint, hay and warm spice, with a peppermint lift on the finish.
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 Rowan's Creek if you want an herbal, minty, rye-forward Willett bottling with more proof behind it.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); neat, old-fashioned, cocktails (Rowan's Creek).