SmokeStack vs Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
SmokeStack
The Vintage Malt Whisky Company
★ 4.56
£26
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)
Balvenie
★ 5.00
£21
| SmokeStack | Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Vintage Malt Whisky Company | Balvenie |
| Region | — | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £26.37 | £20.95 |
| Rating | 4.56/5 | 5.00/5 |
SmokeStack
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)
SmokeStack
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)
Quick verdict
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.56).
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl) is better value at £21 vs £26.
For beginners: Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
SmokeStack
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −More expensive (£26.37 vs £20.95)
- −Lower community rating (4.6 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£20.95 vs £26.37)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy SmokeStack?
SmokeStack 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 Balvenie?
Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Tasting notes
Only SmokeStack
Only Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old (20cl)