Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Four Roses Small Batch BourbonThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryFour RosesDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV45%46%
AgeNAS10 yr
Price£33.48£34.3
Rating4.36/55.00/5

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.36).

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon is better value at £33 vs £34.

For beginners: Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£33.48 vs £34.3)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.4 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £33.48)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Four?

Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon 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 Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon

VanillaHoneyChocolateToastedFresh Fruit

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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