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Jim Beam Black vs Willett Pot Still Reserve
Comparing Jim Beam Black and Willett Pot Still Reserve reveals a matchup between a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple and a modern, even-keeled craft expression.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Jim Beam Black | Willett Pot Still Reserve |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | 94 proof (47% ABV) +8 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$22 – $28 ~$28 less | ~$45 – $60 |
- Jim Beam Black and Willett Pot Still Reserve do not publish an official mash bill.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.
Willett Pot Still Reserve
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Jim Beam Black Willett Pot Still Reserve
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
fruit 3/6 fruit: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 6 out of 10
nuttiness 6/4 nuttiness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 4 out of 10
sweetness 6/7 sweetness: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 7 out of 10
spice 4/5 spice: Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 5 out of 10
heat 3/4 heat: Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 4 out of 10
oak 6/6 oak: Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10, Willett Pot Still Reserve 6 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
Fruit character is what sets these apart.
- 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.
- Willett Pot Still Reserve: Famous first for the pot-still-shaped decanter and second for the whiskey, which is a fair ordering. Pleasant, sweet and fruit-leaning, with a good deal of the price attached to the glass.
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 Willett Pot Still Reserve if you want a distinctive bottle on the shelf and an easy, fruit-forward pour inside it with slightly more proof behind it.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black); neat, rocks (Willett Pot Still Reserve).