Rock Island Sherry Edition vs Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

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

Rock Island Sherry EditionCaol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)
DistilleryRock IslandCaol Ila
RegionIslandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV46.8%60.7%
AgeNAS9 yr
Price£50£49.95
Rating5.00/5

Rock Island Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner25/100
Value0/100

Rock Island Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi) is better value at £50 vs £50.

For beginners: Rock Island Sherry Edition is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Rock Island Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£50 vs £49.95)

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£49.95 vs £50)

Cons

  • High ABV (60.7%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Rock?

Rock Island Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi) 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

Smokey

Only Rock Island Sherry Edition

SherriedDried FruitSandyNutty

Only Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

MedicinalOilyKippery

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