BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus vs North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Benriach
★ 4.86
£32

North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)
North British
★ 4.00
£26
| BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus | North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Benriach | North British |
| Region | Speyside | Lowland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Grain |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £32.12 | £25.95 |
| Rating | 4.86/5 | 4.00/5 |
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)
Quick verdict
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus is rated higher (4.86 vs 4.00).
North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt) is better value at £26 vs £32.
For beginners: North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (4.9/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£32.12 vs £25.95)
North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£25.95 vs £32.12)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.0 vs 4.9)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy BenRiach?
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Who should buy North?
North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Tasting notes
Only BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Only North British 12 Year Old 2011 (Master of Malt)