Jim Beam Original is where it all began back in 1795. It’s the entry level Bourbon from the now Beam Suntory-owned Whiskey and often referred to as the “white label,” in many ways, the direct challenger to Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, which is known as the “black label.”
This Kentucky straight bourbon features a mashbill composed of corn, rye, and malted barley. It is aged in new, charred American oak barrels for at least four years. The back of some bottles shows the faces of the brand’s master distillers.
Sweetness wafts onto the nose with notes of vanilla, corn, maple syrup, and a bit of cereal. The palate features toasted oak, more vanilla and a touch of peppery spice. The finish finds more oak along with syrupy sweetness and a little fire.
Jim Beam Original is quite versatile and can be drunk straight, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. If you’re looking to mix something up, the brand recommends a Bourbon Milk Punch:
Bourbon Milk Punch
- 3 parts Whole Milk
- 2 parts Half and Half
- 1.5 parts Jim Beam Original Bourbon
- 1 part sifted Sugar, Powdered
- Vanilla Extract
- Fresh Grated Nutmeg
- Cinnamon Stick
In a pitcher, whisk together milk, half-and-half, bourbon, sugar and vanilla. Freeze until slushy and ready to serve. Stir before serving it in a chilled glass, finished with a few gratings of fresh nutmeg. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Originally called Old Jake Beam Sour Mash, Jacob Beam sold his first barrel of Whiskey in 1795. In 2007, Frederick Booker Noe III became the seventh generation Beam family distiller. Suntory Holdings purchased the company and now the combined entity is known as Beam Suntory.
Jim Beam makes a variety of different Whiskeys, including Black, Double Oak, Rye, Devil’s Cut, Bonded, Single Barrel, Apple, Vanilla, Red Stag, Honey, Kentucky Fire, Maple, and Peach as well as various limited editions.
Jim Beam Original Ratings:
- Proof 66: 2.7/5
- Influenster: 4.1/5