The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Epicurean | Big Peat |
| Region | Lowland | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 48% | 52.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £54.95 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £55.
For beginners: The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£54.95 vs £47.9)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£47.9 vs £54.95)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy The?
The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish 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 The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021