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Jim Beam Black vs Stagg
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Stagg reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and an uncut, cask-strength bruiser.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Stagg |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Traditional Bourbon, Barrel Proof |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) | 130 proof (65% ABV) +44 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$70 less | ~$70 – $120 |
| Availability | Widely available easier to find | Limited |
- Jim Beam Black and Stagg do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Stagg
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Stagg
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
heat 3/10 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Stagg 10 out of 10
spice 4/7 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Stagg 7 out of 10
oak 6/9 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Stagg 9 out of 10
fruit 3/5 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Stagg 5 out of 10
nuttiness 6/4 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Stagg 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/7 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Stagg 7 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
These two land very differently on the palate for heat.
- 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.
- Stagg: Uncut and unfiltered Buffalo Trace at a proof that demands respect. Dark chocolate, espresso and charred oak arrive with genuine heat, and a few drops of water unlock a surprising amount of fruit.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Jim Beam Black if you want the Beam house character at its most affordable and easy-going without hunting for it.
- Go with Stagg if you want the biggest, hottest, most concentrated expression of the Buffalo Trace profile with significantly more proof behind it.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); neat (Stagg).