Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt
DistilleryBig PeatGelston's
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV52.8%40%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£47.9£46.85
Rating5.00/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt

Smoke0/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt is better value at £47 vs £48.

For beginners: Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +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 £46.85)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£46.85 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 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 Gelston's?

Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Only Gelston's 12 Year Old Single Malt

CitricFresh Fruit

Explore more