The Big Smoke 46 vs Bushmills 12 Year Old

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

The Big Smoke 46Bushmills 12 Year Old
DistilleryDuncan TaylorBushmills
Region
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%40%
Age10 yr12 yr
Price£34.3£37.95
Rating5.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

Bushmills 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness56/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bushmills 12 Year Old

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 £38.

For beginners: Bushmills 12 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 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 £37.95)

Cons

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

Bushmills 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£37.95 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 Bushmills?

Bushmills 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

Only Bushmills 12 Year Old

SherriedDried FruitHoneyToasted

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