Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Caol Ila |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 52.8% | 46% |
| Age | NAS | 9 yr |
| Price | £47.9 | £66.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £67.
For beginners: Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£47.9 vs £66.95)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −More expensive (£66.95 vs £47.9)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
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.
Who should buy Caol?
Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Only Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice