Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old vs The Big Smoke 46

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Jim Beam Black 7 Year OldThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryJim BeamDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV45%46%
Age7 yr10 yr
Price£31.5£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner90/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old is better value at £32 vs £34.

For beginners: Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£31.5 vs £34.3)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (10 vs 7 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £31.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Jim?

Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy The?

The Big Smoke 46 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Jim Beam Black 7 Year Old

VanillaToastedHoneyOld Wood

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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