Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011 vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011Big Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryBruichladdichBig Peat
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV50%52.8%
Age6 yrNAS
Price£66.95£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011

Smoke65/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner50/100
Value75/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £67.

For beginners: Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011 is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£66.95 vs £47.9)

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £66.95)
  • +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 Port?

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay 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

SmokeyOily

Only Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2011

KipperyFresh Fruit

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

MedicinalCoal-gas

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