The Big Smoke 46 vs Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits

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

The Big Smoke 46Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits
DistilleryDuncan TaylorBenrinnes
RegionSpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%51%
Age10 yr8 yr
Price£34.3£42.95
Rating5.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner50/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £43.

For beginners: The Big Smoke 46 is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £42.95)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • High ABV (51%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£42.95 vs £34.3)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

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 Benrinnes?

Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits 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 Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

Only Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2012 - North Star Spirits

SherriedCooked FruitHoneyVanillaToasted

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