The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4 vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4
The Lakes Distillery
★ 4.75
£64

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48
| The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4 | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Lakes Distillery | Big Peat |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | England | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 52% | 52.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £63.95 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 4.75/5 | 5.00/5 |
The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.75).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £64.
For beginners: The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4 is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).
The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4
Pros
- +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts
Cons
- −High ABV (52%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£63.95 vs £47.9)
- −Lower community rating (4.8 vs 5.0)
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 £63.95)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy The?
The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4 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.
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 Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.4
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021