William Larue Weller Special Reserve vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

William Larue Weller Special ReserveBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryWilliam Larue WellerBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV45%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£43.5£47.9
Rating4.75/55.00/5

William Larue Weller Special Reserve

Smoke0/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner65/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

William Larue Weller Special Reserve

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.75).

William Larue Weller Special Reserve is better value at £44 vs £48.

For beginners: William Larue Weller Special Reserve is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

William Larue Weller Special Reserve

Pros

  • +More affordable (£43.5 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.8 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £43.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy William?

William Larue Weller Special Reserve suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon 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 William Larue Weller Special Reserve

VanillaHoneyNuttyToastedFresh Fruit

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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