Big Peat 33 Year Old vs North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Big Peat 33 Year Old
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£250

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
North of Scotland
★ 5.00
£200
| Big Peat 33 Year Old | North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | North of Scotland |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Grain |
| ABV | 47.2% | 41% |
| Age | 33 yr | 46 yr |
| Price | £249.95 | £199.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Big Peat 33 Year Old
North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
Big Peat 33 Year Old
North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
Quick verdict
North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt) is better value at £200 vs £250.
For beginners: North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Big Peat 33 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£249.95 vs £199.95)
North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199.95 vs £249.95)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Big?
Big Peat 33 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy North?
North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (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
Both taste of
Only Big Peat 33 Year Old
Only North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)