Big Peat 33 Year Old vs Octomore 16.3

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

Big Peat 33 Year OldOctomore 16.3
DistilleryBig PeatBruichladdich
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV47.2%61.6%
Age33 yr5 yr
Price£249.95£192.95
Rating5.00/5

Big Peat 33 Year Old

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

Octomore 16.3

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value0/100

Big Peat 33 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Octomore 16.3

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat 33 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Octomore 16.3 is better value at £193 vs £250.

For beginners: Big Peat 33 Year Old is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Big Peat 33 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (33 vs 5 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£249.95 vs £192.95)

Octomore 16.3

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£192.95 vs £249.95)

Cons

  • High ABV (61.6%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

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 Octomore?

Octomore 16.3 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

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Big Peat 33 Year Old

SherriedDried FruitOld WoodChocolate

Only Octomore 16.3

OilyMedicinalSolventLeathery

Explore more