Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese SmoothThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryDewar'sDuncan Taylor
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
Age8 yr10 yr
Price£27.91£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth is better value at £28 vs £34.

For beginners: Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£27.91 vs £34.3)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • 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)
  • +Longer maturation (10 vs 8 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £27.91)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Dewar's?

Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth 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 Dewar's 8 Year Old Portuguese Smooth

SherriedHoneyCooked FruitDried Fruit

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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