Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Rock Island 21 Year Old

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

Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)Rock Island 21 Year Old
DistilleryDeanstonRock Island
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV49.1%46.8%
Age20 yr21 yr
Price£134.95£99.62
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner70/100
Value37/100

Rock Island 21 Year Old

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

Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Island 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island 21 Year Old is better value at £100 vs £135.

For beginners: Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£134.95 vs £99.62)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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 £134.95)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Deanston?

Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) 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.

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

Old WoodHoneyDried FruitSherried

Only Deanston 20 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Vanilla

Only Rock Island 21 Year Old

Smokey

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