The Big Smoke 46 vs The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The Big Smoke 46
Duncan Taylor
★ 5.00
£34

The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)
North Star Spirits
£39
| The Big Smoke 46 | The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Duncan Taylor | North Star Spirits |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 50% |
| Age | 10 yr | 11 yr |
| Price | £34.3 | £38.96 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
The Big Smoke 46
The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)
The Big Smoke 46
The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)
Quick verdict
The Big Smoke 46 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
The Big Smoke 46 is better value at £34 vs £39.
For beginners: The Big Smoke 46 is more approachable (60/100 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 £38.96)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (11 vs 10 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£38.96 vs £34.3)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
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 Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only The Islay Star 8 Year Old - Regional Range (North Star Spirits)