Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020 vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020Big Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryFettercairnBig Peat
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV46.4%52.8%
Age16 yrNAS
Price£73.26£47.9
Rating4.33/55.00/5

Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner60/100
Value59/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.33).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £73.

For beginners: Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020 is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£73.26 vs £47.9)
  • Lower community rating (4.3 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)
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £73.26)

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Fettercairn?

Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland 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 Fettercairn 16 Year Old - 1st Release: 2020

ChocolateSherriedCooked FruitVanillaToasted

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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