Yamazaki 1984 vs Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

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

Yamazaki 1984Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky
DistilleryYamazakiPort Ellen
Region
CountryJapanUnited Kingdom
TypeSingle Malt
ABV48%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£899.95£1200
Rating5.00/5

Yamazaki 1984

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

Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Yamazaki 1984

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Yamazaki 1984 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

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

For beginners: Yamazaki 1984 is more approachable (55/100 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

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£1200 vs £899.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

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 Port?

Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Old Wood

Only Yamazaki 1984

VanillaToastedNuttySherried

Only Port Ellen 1980 / Bot.1997 / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

SmokeyKipperyMedicinalLeathery

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