Glen Garioch 12 Year Old vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Glen Garioch 12 Year OldThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryGlen GariochDuncan Taylor
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV48%46%
Age12 yr10 yr
Price£44.25£34.3
Rating4.42/55.00/5

Glen Garioch 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner60/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Glen Garioch 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.42).

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £44.

For beginners: Glen Garioch 12 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Glen Garioch 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£44.25 vs £34.3)
  • 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)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £44.25)

Cons

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

Who should buy Glen?

Glen Garioch 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

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 Glen Garioch 12 Year Old

HoneyToastedMalt ExtractVanillaSherried

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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