Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48

Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy
Carlos I
£54
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Carlos I |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Blended Malt | |
| ABV | 52.8% | 40% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £47.9 | £54.25 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy
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 £54.
For beginners: Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy is more approachable (75/100 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 £54.25)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
Cons
- −More expensive (£54.25 vs £47.9)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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 Carlos?
Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.
Tasting notes
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Only Carlos I Imperial XO Solera Gran Reserva Brandy