Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Bowmore |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 43% |
| Age | 40 yr | 21 yr |
| Price | £1299 | £1200 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Quick verdict
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973 is better value at £1200 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
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −More expensive (£1299 vs £1200)
Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£1200 vs £1299)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
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 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
Only Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Only Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Where to buy
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Bowmore 21 Year Old 1973
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange