Really Big Peat vs Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Really Big Peat
Big Peat
★ 5.00
£215

Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
Tomintoul
★ 5.00
£224
| Really Big Peat | Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Big Peat | Tomintoul |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 53.9% |
| Age | NAS | 31 yr |
| Price | £214.57 | £223.7 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Really Big Peat
Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
Really Big Peat
Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
Quick verdict
Really Big Peat is better value at £215 vs £224.
For beginners: Really Big Peat is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Really Big Peat
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£214.57 vs £223.7)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
Pros
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (53.9%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£223.7 vs £214.57)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Really?
Really Big Peat suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy Tomintoul?
Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Tasting notes
Only Really Big Peat
Only Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask