Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016) vs Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

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

Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016)Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
DistilleryChichibuSmooth Ambler
Region
CountryJapanAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBourbon
ABV54.5%47.1%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£299£299
Rating5.00/5

Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner35/100
Value0/100

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner55/100
Value17/100

Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is better value at £299 vs £299.

For beginners: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (54.5%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Chichibu?

Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016) 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 Smooth?

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

ToastedDried FruitOld Wood

Only Chichibu The Peated 2012 (bottled 2016)

SmokeyLeathery

Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

VanillaChocolate

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