Bell's Original (1L) vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Bell's Original (1L)The Big Smoke 46
DistilleryBell'sDuncan Taylor
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
AgeNAS10 yr
Price£26.5£34.3
Rating3.42/55.00/5

Bell's Original (1L)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness51/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Bell's Original (1L)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.42).

Bell's Original (1L) is better value at £27 vs £34.

For beginners: Bell's Original (1L) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Bell's Original (1L)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£26.5 vs £34.3)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.4 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

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

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £26.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bell's?

Bell's Original (1L) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Who should buy The?

The Big Smoke 46 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Bell's Original (1L)

Malt ExtractHoneyFresh FruitNutty

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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