Johnny Drum Black Label vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Johnny Drum Black LabelThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryJohnny Drum Distiling Co.Duncan Taylor
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV43%46%
Age12 yr10 yr
Price£33.94£34.3
Rating5.00/5

Johnny Drum Black Label

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

The Big Smoke 46

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

Johnny Drum Black Label

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Johnny Drum Black Label is better value at £34 vs £34.

For beginners: Johnny Drum Black Label is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Johnny Drum Black Label

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£33.94 vs £34.3)
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)

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)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £33.94)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Johnny?

Johnny Drum Black Label 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 Johnny Drum Black Label

VanillaHoneyChocolateToastedNutty

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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