Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Strathisla
★ 5.00
£1299
Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky
Caol Ila
£1800
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Caol Ila |
| Region | Speyside | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 43% | 40% |
| Age | 40 yr | NAS |
| Price | £1299 | £1800 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky
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 £1800.
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
Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1800 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 Caol?
Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Only Caol Ila 20 Year Old / 150th Anniversary Islay Whisky