Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Strathisla
★ 5.00
£1299
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Bowmore
£1750
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Bowmore |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 45.1% |
| Age | 40 yr | 30 yr |
| Price | £1299 | £1750 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Quick verdict
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £1299 vs £1750.
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
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1750 vs £1299)
- −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 30 Year Old (2020 Release) 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 30 Year Old (2020 Release)