The Big Smoke 46 vs The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old

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

The Big Smoke 46The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old
DistilleryDuncan TaylorThe Black Scotsman
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%40%
Age10 yr9 yr
Price£34.3£34.2
Rating5.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness67/100
Beginner100/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old is better value at £34 vs £34.

For beginners: The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (10 vs 9 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.3 vs £34.2)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£34.2 vs £34.3)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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.

Who should buy The?

The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old 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.

Tasting notes

Only The Big Smoke 46

SmokeyOily

Only The Black Scotsman 9 Year Old

SherriedDried FruitHoneyVanillaCooked Fruit

Explore more