Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay WhiskyLaphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryCaol IlaLaphroaig
RegionIslay
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40%46.6%
AgeNAS32 yr
Price£1710£1500
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky

Smoke66/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1710.

For beginners: Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£1710 vs £1500)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £1710)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SmokeyLeathery

Only Caol Ila 1981 / 40 Year Old / Private Collection Islay Whisky

CitricCoal-gasMedicinal

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried FruitOld Wood

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