Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Paul John Christmas Edition 2023

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021Paul John Christmas Edition 2023
DistilleryBig PeatPaul John
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandIndia
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV52.8%46%
AgeNASNAS
Price£47.9£60.36
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Smoke66/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner35/100
Value100/100

Paul John Christmas Edition 2023

Smoke0/100
Sweetness56/100
Beginner65/100
Value83/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Paul John Christmas Edition 2023

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £60.

For beginners: Paul John Christmas Edition 2023 is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £60.36)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52.8%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Paul John Christmas Edition 2023

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£60.36 vs £47.9)
  • 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 Paul?

Paul John Christmas Edition 2023 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Only Paul John Christmas Edition 2023

SherriedHoneyCooked FruitToasted

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