North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) vs The Big Smoke 46

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

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)The Big Smoke 46
DistilleryNorth BritishDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeGrainBlended Malt
ABV50.3%46%
Age13 yr10 yr
Price£29.95£34.3
Rating4.82/55.00/5

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.82).

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) is better value at £30 vs £34.

For beginners: North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£29.95 vs £34.3)
  • +Longer maturation (13 vs 10 years)

Cons

  • High ABV (50.3%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (4.8 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 £29.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy North?

North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt) 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 North British 13 Year Old 2008 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

VanillaMalt ExtractFresh FruitHoneyNew Wood

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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