The Big Smoke 46 vs North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

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

The Big Smoke 46North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)
DistilleryDuncan TaylorNorth British
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltGrain
ABV46%50.3%
Age10 yr13 yr
Price£34.3£29.95
Rating5.00/54.82/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.82).

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) is better value at £30 vs £34.

For beginners: North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) is more approachable (75/100 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 £29.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£29.95 vs £34.3)
  • +Longer maturation (13 vs 10 years)

Cons

  • High ABV (50.3%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (4.8 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 North?

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) 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 North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

VanillaMalt ExtractFresh FruitHoneyNew Wood

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