Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid) vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)The Big Smoke 46
DistilleryClynelishDuncan Taylor
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV46%46%
Age13 yr10 yr
Price£36.31£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness67/100
Beginner90/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

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 £36.

For beginners: Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid) is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (13 vs 10 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£36.31 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 £36.31)

Cons

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

Who should buy Clynelish?

Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid) 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 Clynelish 13 Year Old 1997 (Murray McDavid)

SherriedDried FruitTobaccoLeatheryVanilla

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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