Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018 vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018Big Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryCotswoldsBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryEnglandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV60.9%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£64.95£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner40/100
Value77/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £65.

For beginners: Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018 is more approachable (40/100 beginner score).

Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • High ABV (60.9%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£64.95 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 £64.95)
  • +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 Cotswolds?

Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018 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.

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 Cotswolds Founder's Choice Whisky 2018

Fresh FruitVanillaToastedHoneyMalt Extract

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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