Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Aquila 12 Year Old WhiskyThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryAquilaDuncan Taylor
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV44.3%46%
Age12 yr10 yr
Price£34.95£34.3
Rating4.80/55.00/5

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

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

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.80).

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £35.

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
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.95 vs £34.3)
  • Lower community rating (4.8 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £34.95)

Cons

  • 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 The?

The Big Smoke 46 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 Aquila 12 Year Old Whisky

HoneyNuttySherriedToastedFresh Fruit

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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