BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus vs Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Benriach
★ 4.86
£32
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8
Benchmark
★ 4.29
£24
| BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus | Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Benriach | Benchmark |
| Region | Speyside | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £32.12 | £23.79 |
| Rating | 4.86/5 | 4.29/5 |
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8
Quick verdict
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus is rated higher (4.86 vs 4.29).
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8 is better value at £24 vs £32.
For beginners: Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (4.9/5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£32.12 vs £23.79)
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£23.79 vs £32.12)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.3 vs 4.9)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy BenRiach?
BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Who should buy Benchmark?
Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8 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 BenRiach 12 Year Old Heredotus Fumosus
Only Benchmark Bourbon Old Number 8