Yamazaki 1984 vs Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973

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

Yamazaki 1984Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
DistilleryYamazakiBowmore
RegionIslay
CountryJapanScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV48%43%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£899.95£1200
Rating5.00/5

Yamazaki 1984

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner55/100
Value6/100

Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Yamazaki 1984

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Yamazaki 1984 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Yamazaki 1984 is better value at £900 vs £1200.

For beginners: Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Yamazaki 1984

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£899.95 vs £1200)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1200 vs £899.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Who should buy Yamazaki?

Yamazaki 1984 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Who should buy Bowmore?

Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

VanillaToastedSherried

Only Yamazaki 1984

Old WoodNutty

Only Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973

HoneyDried Fruit

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