Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky vs Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Bowmore
£6

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)
Pulteney
★ 4.11
£4
| Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky | Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Pulteney |
| Region | — | Highland |
| Country | United Kingdom | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £5.75 | £4.32 |
| Rating | — | 4.11/5 |
Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)
Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)
Quick verdict
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling) is rated higher (4.11 vs 0.00).
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling) is better value at £4 vs £6.
For beginners: Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£5.75 vs £4.32)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.1)
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (4.1/5)
- +More affordable (£4.32 vs £5.75)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 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.
Who should buy Old?
Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Bowmore 12 Year Old Sherry Oak Sample Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Only Old Pulteney 12 Year Old (Old Bottling)