Compass Box Crimson Casks vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Compass Box Crimson CasksBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryCompass BoxBig Peat
RegionOther ScotchIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV46%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£63.5£47.9
Rating5.00/5

Compass Box Crimson Casks

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner65/100
Value0/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Compass Box Crimson Casks

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £64.

For beginners: Compass Box Crimson Casks is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Compass Box Crimson Casks

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£63.5 vs £47.9)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 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 £63.5)

Cons

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

Who should buy Compass?

Compass Box Crimson Casks suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch 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 Compass Box Crimson Casks

SherriedChocolateDried FruitToastedOld Wood

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Explore more