Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof
DistilleryBig PeatThe Black Bottle Distillery
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandEngland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV52.8%58%
AgeNASNAS
Price£47.9£38.5
Rating5.00/54.67/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Smoke66/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner35/100
Value100/100

Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof

Smoke0/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner65/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).

Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof is better value at £39 vs £48.

For beginners: Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £38.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +More affordable (£38.5 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (58%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Big?

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Randolph?

Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof 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 Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Only Randolph Oxford Barrel Proof

Fresh FruitCitricVanillaNew Wood

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