Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
North Star Spirits
★ 5.00
£47
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | North Star Spirits |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 52.8% | 51.1% |
| Age | NAS | 23 yr |
| Price | £47.9 | £46.75 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Quick verdict
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits is better value at £47 vs £48.
For beginners: Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits 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 £46.75)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +More affordable (£46.75 vs £47.9)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (51.1%) — may need water
- −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 Vega?
Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits 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
Only Vega 23 Year Old 1993 - North Star Spirits