The Big Smoke 46 vs Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

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

The Big Smoke 46Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)
DistilleryDuncan TaylorClynelish
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%46%
Age10 yr13 yr
Price£34.3£36.31
Rating5.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness67/100
Beginner90/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £36.

For beginners: Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid) is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £36.31)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (13 vs 10 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£36.31 vs £34.3)
  • 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 Clynelish?

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid) 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 Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

SherriedDried FruitTobaccoLeatheryVanilla

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