The Big Smoke 46 vs Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky
Ballantine's
£26
| The Big Smoke 46 | Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | Ballantine's |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Blended Malt | |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 10 yr | NAS |
| Price | £34.3 | £25.5 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
The Big Smoke 46
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky
The Big Smoke 46
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky is better value at £26 vs £34.
For beginners: Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).
The Big Smoke 46
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£34.3 vs £25.5)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£25.5 vs £34.3)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −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 Ballantine's?
Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky 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 Ballantine's Finest True Music Icons Elton John Edition Blended Whisky