Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive
Smooth Ambler
★ 3.50
£74

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48
| Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Smooth Ambler | Big Peat |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Bourbon | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 59.6% | 52.8% |
| Age | 5 yr | NAS |
| Price | £73.95 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 3.50/5 | 5.00/5 |
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.50).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £74.
For beginners: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive is more approachable (40/100 beginner score).
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive
Pros
- +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts
Cons
- −High ABV (59.6%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£73.95 vs £47.9)
- −Lower community rating (3.5 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 affordable (£47.9 vs £73.95)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Smooth?
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive 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.
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 Smooth Ambler Old Scout 5 Year Old Bourbon (cask 24176) - Drinks by the Dram Exclusive
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021