Benriach The Smoky Twelve vs J.J. Corry The Sonas

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

Benriach The Smoky TwelveJ.J. Corry The Sonas
DistilleryBenriachJ.J. Corry
RegionSpeyside
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV46%50%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£48.95£62.95
Rating4.38/55.00/5

Benriach The Smoky Twelve

Smoke64/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner55/100
Value90/100

J.J. Corry The Sonas

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner75/100
Value79/100

Benriach The Smoky Twelve

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

J.J. Corry The Sonas

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

J.J. Corry The Sonas is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.38).

Benriach The Smoky Twelve is better value at £49 vs £63.

For beginners: J.J. Corry The Sonas is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Benriach The Smoky Twelve

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£48.95 vs £62.95)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.4 vs 5.0)

J.J. Corry The Sonas

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£62.95 vs £48.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Benriach?

Benriach The Smoky Twelve suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Who should buy J.J.?

J.J. Corry The Sonas 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.

Tasting notes

Only Benriach The Smoky Twelve

SmokeyDried FruitToastedSherried

Only J.J. Corry The Sonas

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractOily

Explore more