The Big Smoke 46 vs Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
North Star Spirits
★ 5.00
£47
| The Big Smoke 46 | Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | North Star Spirits |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 51.1% |
| Age | 10 yr | 23 yr |
| Price | £34.3 | £46.75 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The Big Smoke 46
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
The Big Smoke 46
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £47.
For beginners: Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).
The Big Smoke 46
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£34.3 vs £46.75)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Longer maturation (23 vs 10 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (51.1%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£46.75 vs £34.3)
- −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 Vega?
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.
Tasting notes
Only The Big Smoke 46
Only Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits