Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Bowsaw Small Batch BourbonThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryBowsawDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
AgeNAS10 yr
Price£31.49£34.3
Rating4.33/55.00/5

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.33).

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon is better value at £31 vs £34.

For beginners: Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£31.49 vs £34.3)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.3 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £31.49)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bowsaw?

Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon 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.

Who should buy The?

The Big Smoke 46 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Bowsaw Small Batch Bourbon

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractNew Wood

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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