Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky vs Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky
Bowmore
£1100

Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
Highland Park
★ 5.00
£999
| Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky | Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Highland Park |
| Region | — | Island |
| Country | United Kingdom | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 40% | 48.1% |
| Age | NAS | 30 yr |
| Price | £1100 | £999 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
Quick verdict
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 is better value at £999 vs £1100.
For beginners: Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1100 vs £999)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£999 vs £1100)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky 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 Highland?
Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 21 Year Old / 500th Anniversary Blend Islay Whisky
Only Highland Park 30 Year Old - Pre 2013