Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)Big Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryThompson Bros.Big Peat
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV48.5%52.8%
Age11 yrNAS
Price£48.6£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £49.

For beginners: Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£48.6 vs £47.9)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £48.6)
  • +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 Secret?

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt 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 Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

SherriedCooked FruitMalt ExtractCitricYeasty

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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