Compare
Wild Turkey 81 vs Jim Beam Black
Comparing Wild Turkey 81 and Jim Beam Black reveals a matchup between a traditional, even-keeled Kentucky staple and a traditional, spice-driven Kentucky staple.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Wild Turkey 81 | Jim Beam Black |
|---|---|---|
| Type / Style | Traditional Bourbon | High-Rye Bourbon |
| Mash Bill 1 | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley | 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley |
| Age | No age statement | 7 years |
| Proof | 81 proof (40.5% ABV) | 86 proof (43% ABV) +5 proof |
| Approx. Price 2 | ~$20 – $25 | ~$22 – $28 |
- Wild Turkey 81 and Jim Beam Black do not publish an official mash bill.
- US shelf prices as of 2026-10; they vary widely by market.
AG’s Rating and AG’s Notes
Wild Turkey 81
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Jim Beam Black
Not rated yetNo notes yet.
Flavor Profile
Wild Turkey 81 Jim Beam Black
Axis by axis, biggest gap first
nuttiness 2/6 nuttiness: Wild Turkey 81 2 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
oak 4/6 oak: Wild Turkey 81 4 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
heat 2/3 heat: Wild Turkey 81 2 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10
sweetness 6/6 sweetness: Wild Turkey 81 6 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 6 out of 10
spice 4/4 spice: Wild Turkey 81 4 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 4 out of 10
fruit 3/3 fruit: Wild Turkey 81 3 out of 10, Jim Beam Black 3 out of 10
Flavor Profile Differences
Nutty, grain-driven character is the divider.
- 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.
- 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 Wild Turkey 81 if you want a lighter Wild Turkey built for mixing.
- Go with Jim Beam Black if you want the Beam house character at its most affordable and easy-going.
Best enjoyed highball, cocktails (Wild Turkey 81); neat, rocks, cocktails (Jim Beam Black).