Bushmills 12 Year Old vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Bushmills 12 Year OldThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryBushmillsDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryIrelandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
Age12 yr10 yr
Price£37.95£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Bushmills 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness56/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Bushmills 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £38.

For beginners: Bushmills 12 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Bushmills 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£37.95 vs £34.3)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £37.95)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bushmills?

Bushmills 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

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 Bushmills 12 Year Old

SherriedDried FruitHoneyToasted

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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