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- Stagg and Jim Beam Black do not publish an official mash bill.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