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 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)
North British
★ 4.82
£30
| The Big Smoke 46 | North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | North British |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Grain |
| ABV | 46% | 50.3% |
| Age | 10 yr | 13 yr |
| Price | £34.3 | £29.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.82/5 |
The Big Smoke 46
North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)
The Big Smoke 46
North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)
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
Only North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)