Big Peat 33 Year Old vs North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)

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

Big Peat 33 Year OldNorth of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)
DistilleryBig PeatNorth of Scotland
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltGrain
ABV47.2%41%
Age33 yr46 yr
Price£249.95£199.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Big Peat 33 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner45/100
Value20/100

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner85/100
Value25/100

Big Peat 33 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt) is better value at £200 vs £250.

For beginners: North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Big Peat 33 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£249.95 vs £199.95)

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£199.95 vs £249.95)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Big?

Big Peat 33 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy North?

North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (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

Both taste of

Old Wood

Only Big Peat 33 Year Old

SmokeySherriedDried FruitChocolate

Only North of Scotland 46 Year Old 1971 (Master of Malt)

VanillaMalt ExtractHoney

Explore more