Benriach The Twelve vs Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Benriach The TwelveBig Peat at Christmas 2021
DistilleryBenriachBig Peat
RegionSpeysideIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV46%52.8%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£45.5£47.9
Rating3.86/55.00/5

Benriach The Twelve

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner65/100
Value85/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Benriach The Twelve

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.86).

Benriach The Twelve is better value at £46 vs £48.

For beginners: Benriach The Twelve is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Benriach The Twelve

Pros

  • +More affordable (£45.5 vs £47.9)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.9 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 £45.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Benriach?

Benriach The Twelve 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 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 Benriach The Twelve

Dried FruitSherriedChocolateToasted

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

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