Really Big Peat vs Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask

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

Really Big PeatTomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask
DistilleryBig PeatTomintoul
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%53.9%
AgeNAS31 yr
Price£214.57£223.7
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Really Big Peat

Smoke66/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner45/100
Value23/100

Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner45/100
Value22/100

Really Big Peat

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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

SmokeyOilyCoal-gasMedicinal

Only Tomintoul 1981 (cask 5985) - Vintage Single Cask

Old WoodHoneyVanillaDried FruitToasted

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