Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2
DistilleryBig PeatBrackla
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV52.8%46%
AgeNAS13 yr
Price£47.9£49.5
Rating5.00/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2

Smoke0/100
Sweetness49/100
Beginner65/100
Value0/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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 £50.

For beginners: Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2 is more approachable (65/100 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 £49.5)

Cons

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

Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£49.5 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 Royal?

Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Only Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokeyMedicinalCoal-gasOily

Only Royal Brackla 13 Year Old 1997 NC2

Fresh FruitCitricHoneyFragantMalt Extract

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