Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003) vs Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013

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

Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003)Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
DistilleryTaliskerHighland Park
RegionIslandIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV58.8%48.1%
Age20 yr30 yr
Price£999£999
Rating5.00/5

Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value0/100

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value5/100

Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 is better value at £999 vs £999.

For beginners: Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (58.8%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (30 vs 20 years)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Talisker?

Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003) 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.

Who should buy Highland?

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Talisker 20 Year Old 1982 (Special Release 2003)

OilyMedicinal

Only Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013

HoneyDried FruitToastedOld Wood

Explore more