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Smooth Ambler Old Scout vs Zackariah Harris
Comparing Smooth Ambler Old Scout and Zackariah Harris reveals a matchup between a sourced, spice-driven blend and a blender-built, even-keeled bottling.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Smooth Ambler Old Scout | Zackariah Harris |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | High-Rye Bourbon | Traditional Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley | Not disclosed |
| Age | 5 years | No age statement |
| Proof | 99 proof (49.5% ABV) +19 proof | 80 proof (40% ABV) |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$40 – $50 | ~$13 – $22 ~$28 less |
- Zackariah Harris does 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
Smooth Ambler Old Scout
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Zackariah Harris
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Smooth Ambler Old Scout Zackariah Harris
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
spice 7/3 spice: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 3 out of 10
oak 6/3 oak: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 6 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 3 out of 10
fruit 5/2 fruit: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 2 out of 10
heat 6/3 heat: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 6 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 3 out of 10
nuttiness 3/2 nuttiness: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 3 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 2 out of 10
sweetness 5/5 sweetness: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 out of 10, Zackariah Harris 5 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
The gap between these two is mostly about spice.
- Smooth Ambler Old Scout: Sourced MGP bourbon selected and bottled in West Virginia, and one of the more honest sourced brands about exactly what it is. The characteristic MGP dill-and-pepper signature, cleanly presented.
- Zackariah Harris: A bottom-shelf Kentucky straight bourbon, mostly sold in liters and handles. Simple caramel and oak with a short, warm finish.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go with Smooth Ambler Old Scout if you want the classic MGP high-rye profile from a bottler that has always been upfront about sourcing with more proof behind it.
- Go with Zackariah Harris if you want a simple Kentucky bourbon for mixing at a lower price point.
Best enjoyed neat, old-fashioned, cocktails (Smooth Ambler Old Scout); highball, cocktails (Zackariah Harris).