Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs The Epicurean 12 Year Old

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021The Epicurean 12 Year Old
DistilleryBig PeatThe Epicurean
RegionIslayLowland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV52.8%46%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£47.9£45
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

The Epicurean 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness58/100
Beginner65/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Epicurean 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Epicurean 12 Year Old is better value at £45 vs £48.

For beginners: The Epicurean 12 Year Old is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £45)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Epicurean 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +More affordable (£45 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • 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 The?

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

Tasting notes

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Only The Epicurean 12 Year Old

Fresh FruitCitricHoneyMalt Extract

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