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 2021
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£48

Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)
Thompson Bros.
★ 5.00
£49
| Big Peat at Christmas 2021 | Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Thompson Bros. |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 52.8% | 48.5% |
| Age | NAS | 11 yr |
| Price | £47.9 | £48.6 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)
Big Peat at Christmas 2021
Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)
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
Only Secret Speyside 11 Year Old 2011 (Thompson Bros.)