Bushmills Original (1L) vs Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

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

Bushmills Original (1L)Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old
DistilleryBushmillsWeeknight Whisky
Region
CountryIrelandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV40%40%
AgeNAS8 yr
Price£38.97£31.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Bushmills Original (1L)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner70/100
Value100/100

Bushmills Original (1L)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old is better value at £32 vs £39.

For beginners: Bushmills Original (1L) is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Bushmills Original (1L)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£38.97 vs £31.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£31.95 vs £38.97)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bushmills?

Bushmills Original (1L) 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 Weeknight?

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Bushmills Original (1L)

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractCitricYeasty

Only Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalOilyLeathery

Where to buy

Bushmills Original (1L)

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

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