Jim Beam 7 Year Black vs. Jim Beam Double Oaked: Battle of the Budget Beams

Introduction

Jim Beam is one of the most recognizable names in bourbon—producing high-volume whiskey that’s approachable, affordable, and often overlooked by enthusiasts. But hidden within the Beam lineup are a few budget-friendly gems worth exploring. Two standout bottles in the under-$30 category are Jim Beam 7 Year Black and Jim Beam Double Oaked. Both are bottled at 86 proof and share the same core mash bill, yet they offer two very different experiences thanks to age and finishing technique.

In this review, we’re putting them head-to-head—comparing everything from aroma to finish, and ultimately answering: which one is worth your shelf space?

Bottle Details

Jim Beam 7 Year Black

• Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• ABV: 45% (90 Proof)
• Mash Bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, 10% malted barley
• Age: 7 years
• Distillery: Jim Beam (Clermont, KY)
• Price: ~$25–30

Jim Beam Double Oaked

• Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in a second, new charred oak barrel
• ABV: 43% (86 Proof)
• Mash Bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, 10% malted barley
• Age: NAS (rumored 4–5 years + finishing)
• Distillery: Jim Beam (Clermont, KY)
• Price: ~$20–25

Jim Beam 7 Year Black

Nose

The nose of the 7 Year Black is balanced and inviting. You’re greeted with a blend of sweet vanilla, light brown sugar, and roasted peanuts—a signature Jim Beam note. Soft oak is layered in without overwhelming the sweeter aromas, and there’s a subtle fruitiness in the background, reminiscent of red apple skins or dried apricot. It’s gentle but shows maturity and complexity beyond its price point.

Palate

On the palate, the 7 Year feels richer than its proof suggests. Caramel and toffee lead the charge, followed by roasted peanut, mild cinnamon spice, and a touch of oak. The texture is fuller than expected, delivering flavor with depth that reflects the extended aging. You still get the classic Jim Beam nuttiness in a dry roasted peanut form.

Finish

The finish is medium in length and well-balanced. A soft wave of oak, vanilla, and light spice lingers, leaving behind a warm, mellow impression. It’s clean, easygoing, and gives you a reason to come back for another sip.

Jim Beam Double Oaked

Nose

Double Oaked jumps out of the glass with strong notes of toasted oak, cocoa powder, and charred wood. There’s boldness to the aroma that clearly reflects the secondary barrel. However, there’s also a sharp, almost acetone-like note that can distract from the sweeter undertones. It feels less refined and more oak-driven overall.

Palate

The palate continues the aggressive oak trend. While the initial sip brings caramel and cocoa, the oak comes through quickly and with intensity. The mouthfeel is noticeably thinner than the 7 Year, and a grainy character emerges mid-palate that tastes slightly youthful. The dry roasted peanut note is still there, but it has to fight through the barrel-forward profile, which includes a bitter edge from the secondary char.

Finish

The finish on Double Oaked is short and drying. Toasted oak lingers briefly, followed by bitter tannin and hints of burnt sugar. While it does give you a taste of what double-barreled bourbon can offer, it doesn’t quite deliver the complexity or smoothness you’d hope for.

How Much Would I Pay?

💰 Max Price I Would Pay

• Jim Beam 7 Year Black: $30
• Jim Beam Double Oaked: $25