Compare
Jim Beam Black vs Wild Turkey 81
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Wild Turkey 81 reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a traditional, even-keeled Kentucky staple.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Wild Turkey 81 |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Traditional Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley |
| Age | 7 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) +5 proof | 81 proof (40.5% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 | ~$20 – $25 |
- Jim Beam Black and Wild Turkey 81 do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Wild Turkey 81
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Wild Turkey 81
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
nuttiness 6/2 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 2 out of 10
oak 6/4 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 4 out of 10
heat 3/2 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 2 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 6 out of 10
spice 4/4 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 4 out of 10
fruit 3/3 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Wild Turkey 81 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.
- Wild Turkey 81: The same mash bill and No. 4 char as Wild Turkey 101, cut to 81 proof. Honey and toffee come through clearly, but the body and spice are much lighter.
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 Wild Turkey 81 if you want a lighter Wild Turkey built for mixing.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); highball, cocktails (Wild Turkey 81).