The Big Smoke 46 vs The Epicurean
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| The Big Smoke 46 | The Epicurean | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | The Epicurean |
| Region | — | Lowland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 46.2% |
| Age | 10 yr | NAS |
| Price | £34.3 | £34 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.40/5 |
The Big Smoke 46
The Epicurean
The Big Smoke 46
The Epicurean
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.40).
The Epicurean is better value at £34 vs £34.
For beginners: The Epicurean is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
The Big Smoke 46
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −More expensive (£34.3 vs £34)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
The Epicurean
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£34 vs £34.3)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.4 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 Epicurean 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
Only The Epicurean

