Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s vs Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Suntory
★ 4.50
£240

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Smooth Ambler
★ 5.00
£299
| Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s | Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Suntory | Smooth Ambler |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Japan | America |
| Type | Blended | Bourbon |
| ABV | 40% | 47.1% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £240 | £299 |
| Rating | 4.50/5 | 5.00/5 |
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Quick verdict
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.50).
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s is better value at £240 vs £299.
For beginners: Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£240 vs £299)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.5 vs 5.0)
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Pros
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£299 vs £240)
Who should buy Suntory?
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s 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 Smooth?
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release