Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Master of Malt 12 Year Old IslayBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryMaster of MaltBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%52.8%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£34.95£47.9
Rating5.00/5

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

Smoke68/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay is better value at £35 vs £48.

For beginners: Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£34.95 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

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

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £34.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Master?

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt 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

Both taste of

SmokeyMedicinalOily

Only Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

Fresh Fruit

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Coal-gas

Explore more