The Botanist Islay Dry Gin vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

The Botanist Islay Dry GinBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryBotanistBig Peat
RegionIslay
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeBlended Malt
ABV40%52.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£39.75£47.9
Rating5.00/5

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

Smoke0/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner80/100
Value0/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is better value at £40 vs £48.

For beginners: The Botanist Islay Dry Gin is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£39.75 vs £47.9)

Cons

  • 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 widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £39.75)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy The?

The Botanist Islay Dry Gin suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for 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 The Botanist Islay Dry Gin

FragantGreen-HouseLeafyFresh Fruit

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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