Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch vs Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch
Old Forester
★ 4.00
£50

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Rock Island
★ 5.00
£45
| Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch | Rock Oyster Sherry Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Old Forester | Rock Island |
| Region | — | Island |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Bourbon | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 45% | 46.8% |
| Age | NAS | NAS |
| Price | £49.9 | £44.5 |
| Rating | 4.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Quick verdict
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is better value at £45 vs £50.
For beginners: Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).
Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
Cons
- −More expensive (£49.9 vs £44.5)
- −Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£44.5 vs £49.9)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Old?
Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch 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.
Who should buy Rock?
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.
Tasting notes
Only Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch
Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition