The Big Smoke 46 vs Bushmills Red Bush

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

The Big Smoke 46Bushmills Red Bush
DistilleryDuncan TaylorBushmills
Region
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeBlended MaltBlended
ABV46%40%
Age10 yrNAS
Price£34.3£26.95
Rating5.00/53.50/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

Bushmills Red Bush

Smoke0/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bushmills Red Bush

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.50).

Bushmills Red Bush is better value at £27 vs £34.

For beginners: Bushmills Red Bush is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £26.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Bushmills Red Bush

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£26.95 vs £34.3)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.5 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 Bushmills?

Bushmills Red Bush suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Tasting notes

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

Only Bushmills Red Bush

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractToastedFragant

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