Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory) vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory)The Big Smoke 46
DistilleryCaol IlaDuncan Taylor
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV57.1%46%
Age13 yr10 yr
Price£52.95£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner30/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory)

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 £53.

For beginners: The Big Smoke 46 is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (13 vs 10 years)

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£52.95 vs £34.3)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

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 £52.95)

Cons

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

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory) 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 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

Both taste of

SmokeyOily

Only Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2012 - 100 Proof Edition #70 (Signatory)

SherriedCooked FruitMedicinal

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