The Big Smoke 46 vs Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

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

The Big Smoke 46Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon
DistilleryDuncan TaylorBowsaw
Region
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeBlended MaltBourbon
ABV46%40%
Age10 yrNAS
Price£34.3£31.49
Rating5.00/54.33/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.33).

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon is better value at £31 vs £34.

For beginners: Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon is more approachable (100/100 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 £31.49)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£31.49 vs £34.3)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.3 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 Bowsaw?

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon 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

SmokeyOily

Only Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractNew Wood

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