The Big Smoke 46 vs Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34

Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Dalmore
£31
| The Big Smoke 46 | Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | Dalmore |
| Region | — | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 43% |
| Age | 10 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £34.3 | £31.23 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
The Big Smoke 46
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
The Big Smoke 46
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £31 vs £34.
For beginners: Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 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 £31.23)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£31.23 vs £34.3)
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
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 Dalmore?
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) 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 Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)