The Big Smoke 46 vs Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera
Ximenez Spinola
£29
| The Big Smoke 46 | Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | Ximenez Spinola |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Blended Malt | |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 10 yr | NAS |
| Price | £34.3 | £29.25 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
The Big Smoke 46
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera
The Big Smoke 46
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera is better value at £29 vs £34.
For beginners: Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera 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 £29.25)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£29.25 vs £34.3)
- +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 Ximenez?
Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera 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 Ximenez Spinola Pedro Ximénez Old Harvest Solera