Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits
South Star Spirits
★ 4.00
£43

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48
| Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | South Star Spirits | Big Peat |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 48% | 52.8% |
| Age | 8 yr | NAS |
| Price | £42.5 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 4.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).
Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits is better value at £43 vs £48.
For beginners: Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).
Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£42.5 vs £47.9)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£47.9 vs £42.5)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Islay?
Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits 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
Both taste of
Only Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021