Old Forester Bourbon vs The Big Smoke 46

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

Old Forester BourbonThe Big Smoke 46
DistilleryOld ForesterDuncan Taylor
Region
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV43%46%
AgeNAS10 yr
Price£25.14£34.3
Rating3.31/55.00/5

Old Forester Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness57/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

The Big Smoke 46

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

Old Forester Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.31).

Old Forester Bourbon is better value at £25 vs £34.

For beginners: Old Forester Bourbon is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Old Forester Bourbon

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£25.14 vs £34.3)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.3 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 £25.14)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Old?

Old Forester Bourbon suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon 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 Old Forester Bourbon

VanillaToastedDried FruitOld WoodTobacco

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

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