The Epicurean vs The Big Smoke 46

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

The EpicureanThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryThe EpicureanDuncan Taylor
RegionLowland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV46.2%46%
AgeNAS10 yr
Price£34£34.3
Rating4.40/55.00/5

The Epicurean

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

The Epicurean

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.40).

The Epicurean is better value at £34 vs £34.

For beginners: The Epicurean is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The Epicurean

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£34 vs £34.3)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.4 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £34)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy The?

The Epicurean 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 The Epicurean

Malt ExtractHoneyVanillaFresh Fruit

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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