Akashi Blue Label vs The Big Smoke 46
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Akashi Blue Label | The Big Smoke 46 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Eigashima Shuzō | Duncan Taylor |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 46% |
| Age | NAS | 10 yr |
| Price | £38.14 | £34.3 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Akashi Blue Label
The Big Smoke 46
Akashi Blue Label
The Big Smoke 46
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £38.
For beginners: Akashi Blue Label is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).
Akashi Blue Label
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
Cons
- −More expensive (£38.14 vs £34.3)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
The Big Smoke 46
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£34.3 vs £38.14)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Akashi?
Akashi Blue Label 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 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 Akashi Blue Label
Only The Big Smoke 46