The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) vs Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

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

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
DistilleryWemyss MaltsRock Island
RegionIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%46.8%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£42.34£44.5
Rating3.75/55.00/5

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner75/100
Value89/100

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.75).

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) is better value at £42 vs £45.

For beginners: The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£42.34 vs £44.5)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (3.8 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£44.5 vs £42.34)

Who should buy The?

The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) 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 Rock?

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Only The Hive 12 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

HoneyMalt ExtractVanillaToasted

Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SherriedSmokeyCitricDried Fruit

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