Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail) vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail)Big Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryArdmoreBig Peat
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV43%52.8%
Age14 yrNAS
Price£41.48£47.9
Rating4.00/55.00/5

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner65/100
Value96/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail) is better value at £41 vs £48.

For beginners: Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail) is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£41.48 vs £47.9)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.0 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 £41.48)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Ardmore?

Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland 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

Smokey

Only Ardmore 1993 (Gordon and MacPhail)

ToastedMalt ExtractLeathery

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

MedicinalCoal-gasOily

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