The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

The Exceptional Malt - 2nd EditionBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistillerySutcliffe & SonBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV43%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£69.77£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner75/100
Value72/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Smoke66/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner35/100
Value100/100

The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £70.

For beginners: The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£69.77 vs £47.9)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £69.77)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy The?

The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Who should buy Big?

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Only The Exceptional Malt - 2nd Edition

SherriedChocolateDried FruitOld WoodNutty

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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