Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014) vs Highland Park 40 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014)
Port Ellen
£2999
Highland Park 40 Year Old
Highland Park
★ 4.88
£2995
| Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014) | Highland Park 40 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Port Ellen | Highland Park |
| Region | Islay | Island |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 48.3% |
| Age | 35 yr | 40 yr |
| Price | £2999 | £2995 |
| Rating | — | 4.88/5 |
Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014)
Highland Park 40 Year Old
Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014)
Highland Park 40 Year Old
Quick verdict
Highland Park 40 Year Old is rated higher (4.88 vs 0.00).
Highland Park 40 Year Old is better value at £2995 vs £2999.
For beginners: Highland Park 40 Year Old is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£2999 vs £2995)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.9)
Highland Park 40 Year Old
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (4.9/5)
- +More affordable (£2995 vs £2999)
- +Longer maturation (40 vs 35 years)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Port?
Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014) 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 40 Year Old 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
Only Port Ellen 35 Year Old 1978 - 14th Release (Special Release 2014)
Only Highland Park 40 Year Old