Big Peat at Christmas 2021 vs Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

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

Big Peat at Christmas 2021Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)
DistilleryBig PeatThompson Bros.
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV52.8%48.5%
AgeNAS11 yr
Price£47.9£48.6
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

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

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Big Peat at Christmas 2021 is better value at £48 vs £49.

For beginners: Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Big Peat at Christmas 2021

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£47.9 vs £48.6)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

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

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£48.6 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 Secret?

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) 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 Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)

SherriedCooked FruitMalt ExtractCitricYeasty

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