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 ExclusiveBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistillerySmooth AmblerBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV59.6%52.8%
Age5 yrNAS
Price£73.95£47.9
Rating3.50/55.00/5

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

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner40/100
Value47/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

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

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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

VanillaToastedNew WoodTobaccoChocolate

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Explore more