Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016 vs Bowmore 25 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016
Four Roses
★ 5.00
£499
Bowmore 25 Year Old
Bowmore
★ 5.00
£403
| Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016 | Bowmore 25 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Four Roses | Bowmore |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | America | Scotland |
| Type | Bourbon | Single Malt |
| ABV | 55.6% | 43% |
| Age | NAS | 25 yr |
| Price | £499 | £402.5 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016
Bowmore 25 Year Old
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016
Bowmore 25 Year Old
Quick verdict
Bowmore 25 Year Old is better value at £403 vs £499.
For beginners: Bowmore 25 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016
Pros
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (55.6%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£499 vs £402.5)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Bowmore 25 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£402.5 vs £499)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Four?
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016 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 Bowmore?
Bowmore 25 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Only Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2016
Only Bowmore 25 Year Old