Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt WhiskeyBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryWoodford ReserveBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV45.2%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£41.75£47.9
Rating3.75/55.00/5

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner65/100
Value90/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.75).

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey is better value at £42 vs £48.

For beginners: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey

Pros

  • +More affordable (£41.75 vs £47.9)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.8 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £41.75)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Woodford?

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey 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 Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey

VanillaHoneyToastedNew WoodMalt Extract

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Explore more