Bell's Original 1.5l vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Bell's Original 1.5lBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryBell'sBig Peat
RegionOther ScotchIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV40%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£38.49£47.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Bell's Original 1.5l

Smoke0/100
Sweetness49/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Bell's Original 1.5l

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Bell's Original 1.5l is better value at £38 vs £48.

For beginners: Bell's Original 1.5l is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Bell's Original 1.5l

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£38.49 vs £47.9)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £38.49)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bell's?

Bell's Original 1.5l 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 Bell's Original 1.5l

Malt ExtractToastedHoneyNutty

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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