The Big Smoke 46 vs The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)

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

The Big Smoke 46The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)
DistilleryDuncan TaylorMaster of Malt
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended
ABV46%40%
Age10 yr8 yr
Price£34.3£39.95
Rating5.00/5

The Big Smoke 46

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

The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner90/100
Value0/100

The Big Smoke 46

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £40.

For beginners: The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt) is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

The Big Smoke 46

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£34.3 vs £39.95)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£39.95 vs £34.3)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

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 Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only The Big Smoke 46

Oily

Only The Burns Night Blend 8 Year Old Special Release (Master of Malt)

ChocolateHoneyMalt Extract

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