Stauning Bastard vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Stauning BastardBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryStauningBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryDenmarkScotland
TypeRyeBlended Malt
ABV46.3%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£63.5£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Stauning Bastard

Smoke0/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner55/100
Value79/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Stauning Bastard

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £64.

For beginners: Stauning Bastard is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Stauning Bastard

Pros

  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£63.5 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 £63.5)
  • +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 Stauning?

Stauning Bastard suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Rye 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 Stauning Bastard

New WoodToastedTobaccoVegetative

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Explore more