Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt) vs Rock Island 21 Year Old

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

Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt)Rock Island 21 Year Old
DistilleryPaul JohnRock Island
Region
CountryIndiaScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV57.2%46.8%
Age6 yr21 yr
Price£147.95£99.62
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner25/100
Value34/100

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner65/100
Value50/100

Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Island 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island 21 Year Old is better value at £100 vs £148.

For beginners: Rock Island 21 Year Old is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (57.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£147.95 vs £99.62)

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£99.62 vs £147.95)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Paul?

Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt) 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 Rock?

Rock Island 21 Year Old suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Paul John 6 Year Old 2009 (cask 809) - Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Fresh FruitOilyMedicinal

Only Rock Island 21 Year Old

SherriedOld WoodDried FruitHoney

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