The Big Smoke 46 vs Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth

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

The Big Smoke 46Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth
DistilleryDuncan TaylorDewar's
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended
ABV46%40%
Age10 yr8 yr
Price£34.3£26.95
Rating5.00/54.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).

Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth is better value at £27 vs £34.

For beginners: Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (10 vs 8 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £26.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£26.95 vs £34.3)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.0 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 Dewar's?

Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth 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 Dewar's 8 Year Old French Smooth

CitricFresh FruitVanillaHoneyToasted

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