The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish vs Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

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

The Epicurean Ruby Port FinishIslay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
DistilleryThe EpicureanThat Boutique-y Whisky Company
RegionLowland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV48%48.8%
AgeNAS11 yr
Price£54.95£66.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish

Smoke0/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner75/100
Value91/100

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner50/100
Value75/100

The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish is better value at £55 vs £67.

For beginners: The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£54.95 vs £66.95)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£66.95 vs £54.95)

Who should buy The?

The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish 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 Islay?

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only The Epicurean Ruby Port Finish

Fresh FruitCooked FruitHoneySherriedVanilla

Only Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyMedicinalDried FruitLeathery

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