Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L) vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L) | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ballantine's | Big Peat |
| Region | Other Scotch | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 52.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £40.95 | £47.9 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L)
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L)
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L) is better value at £41 vs £48.
For beginners: Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£40.95 vs £47.9)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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 £40.95)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Ballantine's?
Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch 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 Ballantine's Barrel Smooth (1L)
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021