Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Basil Hayden's
★ 4.25
£45

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48
| Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon | Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Basil Hayden's | Big Peat |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Bourbon | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 52.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £44.99 | £47.9 |
| Rating | 4.25/5 | 5.00/5 |
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.25).
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon is better value at £45 vs £48.
For beginners: Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£44.99 vs £47.9)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.3 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)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£47.9 vs £44.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Basil?
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon 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 Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021