Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48

Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old
Mary Queen of Scots
★ 5.00
£37
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Mary Queen of Scots |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 52.8% | 40% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £47.9 | £36.5 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old
Quick verdict
Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old is better value at £37 vs £48.
For beginners: Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£47.9 vs £36.5)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£36.5 vs £47.9)
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 Mary?
Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.
Tasting notes
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Only Mary Queen Of Scots 12 Year Old