Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Maker's Mark 46
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Maker's Mark 46 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Maker's Mark |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Blended Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 52.8% | 47% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £47.9 | £35.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.44/5 |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Maker's Mark 46
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Maker's Mark 46
Quick verdict
Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.44).
Maker's Mark 46 is better value at £36 vs £48.
For beginners: Maker's Mark 46 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£47.9 vs £35.95)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Maker's Mark 46
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£35.95 vs £47.9)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.4 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 Maker's?
Maker's Mark 46 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
Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Only Maker's Mark 46