Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod) vs TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)

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

Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod)TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)
DistilleryIan MacleodThompson Bros.
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV58.1%46%
Age8 yr6 yr
Price£47.51£42.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner25/100
Value100/100

TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness56/100
Beginner65/100
Value100/100

Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.) is better value at £43 vs £48.

For beginners: TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.) is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (8 vs 6 years)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (58.1%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£47.51 vs £42.95)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)

Pros

  • +More affordable (£42.95 vs £47.51)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Islay?

Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod) 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 TB/BSW?

TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Tasting notes

Only Islay 8 Year Old - As We Get It (Ian Macleod)

SmokeyKipperyOilyNew WoodMedicinal

Only TB/BSW 6 Year Old (Thompson Bros.)

SherriedCooked FruitNuttyHoneyTobacco

Explore more