Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr) vs Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix

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

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr)Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix
DistilleryArdmoreTullamore D.E.W.
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV47.5%55%
Age9 yrNAS
Price£44.95£45.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr) is better value at £45 vs £46.

For beginners: Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr) is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£44.95 vs £45.95)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix

Pros

  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (55%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£45.95 vs £44.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ardmore?

Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Tullamore?

Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Sherried

Only Ardmore 9 Year Old 2011 - Strictly Limited (Càrn Mòr)

Dried FruitChocolateSmokey

Only Tullamore D.E.W. Phoenix

HoneyVanillaCooked FruitToasted

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