Compare
Michter's US*1 Small Batch vs Jim Beam Black
Comparing Michter's US*1 Small Batch and Jim Beam Black reveals a matchup between a blender-built, even-keeled bottling and a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Michter's US*1 Small Batch | Jim Beam Black |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | Traditional Bourbon | High-Rye Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | Not disclosed | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley |
| Age | No age statement | 7 years |
| Proof | 91.4 proof (45.7% ABV) +5 proof | 86 proof (43% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$45 – $55 | ~$22 – $28 ~$25 less |
- Michter's US*1 Small Batch and Jim Beam Black do not publish an official mash bill.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
Michter's US*1 Small Batch
No notes yet.
Jim Beam Black
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Michter's US*1 Small Batch Jim Beam Black
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
fruit 5/3 fruit: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 5 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10
nuttiness 4/6 nuttiness: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 4 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
sweetness 7/6 sweetness: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 7 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
oak 5/6 oak: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 5 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
spice 4/4 spice: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 4 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10
heat 3/3 heat: Michter's US*1 Small Batch 3 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
The fruit-versus-grain contrast drives this one.
- Michter's US*1 Small Batch: Polished and easy-drinking, with butterscotch and stone fruit and very little rough edge. What you pay for is refinement and mouthfeel rather than age or proof.
- 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.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Michter's US*1 Small Batch if you want a smooth, polished pour with a premium feel and no rough edges with the texture that comes from skipping chill filtration.
- Go with Jim Beam Black if you want the Beam house character at its most affordable and easy-going.
Best enjoyed neat, rocks (Michter's US*1 Small Batch); neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black).