Mars Kasei vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Mars Kasei | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Mars | Big Peat |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 52.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £45.75 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 3.60/5 | 5.00/5 |
Mars Kasei
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Mars Kasei
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.60).
Mars Kasei is better value at £46 vs £48.
For beginners: Mars Kasei is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Mars Kasei
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£45.75 vs £47.9)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (3.6 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£47.9 vs £45.75)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Mars?
Mars Kasei 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.
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 Mars Kasei
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021