Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Strathisla
★ 5.00
£1299

Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release)
Whyte & Mackay
★ 5.00
£1000
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Whyte & Mackay |
| Region | Speyside | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 43% | 44.6% |
| Age | 40 yr | 50 yr |
| Price | £1299 | £999.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release)
Quick verdict
Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release) is better value at £1000 vs £1299.
For beginners: Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1299 vs £999.95)
Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release)
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£999.95 vs £1299)
- +Longer maturation (50 vs 40 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Strathisla?
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) 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 Whyte?
Whyte & Mackay 50 Year Old (2019 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)