Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Aquila 12 Year Old WhiskyBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryAquilaBig Peat
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV44.3%52.8%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£34.95£47.9
Rating4.80/55.00/5

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

Smoke0/100
Sweetness49/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.80).

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky is better value at £35 vs £48.

For beginners: Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£34.95 vs £47.9)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.8 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.9 vs £34.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Aquila?

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

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.

Tasting notes

Only Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

HoneyNuttySherriedToastedFresh Fruit

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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