The Big Smoke 46 vs Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34
Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice
Fettercairn
★ 5.00
£47
| The Big Smoke 46 | Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | Fettercairn |
| Region | — | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 46% |
| Age | 10 yr | 11 yr |
| Price | £34.3 | £46.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The Big Smoke 46
Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice
The Big Smoke 46
Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £47.
For beginners: Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).
The Big Smoke 46
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£34.3 vs £46.95)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Longer maturation (11 vs 10 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£46.95 vs £34.3)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy The?
The Big Smoke 46 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.
Who should buy Fettercairn?
Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice 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 The Big Smoke 46
Only Fettercairn 11 Year Old 2008 - Hepburn's Choice