Maclean’s Nose vs Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition

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

Maclean’s NoseBig Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition
DistilleryAdelphiBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV46%46%
AgeNAS8 yr
Price£32.95£45.29
Rating4.50/55.00/5

Maclean’s Nose

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner90/100
Value100/100

Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition

Smoke65/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Maclean’s Nose

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.50).

Maclean’s Nose is better value at £33 vs £45.

For beginners: Maclean’s Nose is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

Maclean’s Nose

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£32.95 vs £45.29)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.5 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition

Pros

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

Cons

  • More expensive (£45.29 vs £32.95)

Who should buy Maclean’s?

Maclean’s Nose 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 Big?

Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Only Maclean’s Nose

SherriedHoneyDried FruitOld WoodVanilla

Only Big Peat A846 Fèis Ìle 2020 Edition

SmokeyLeatheryToastedOilyKippery

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