Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

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

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£1500
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Laphroaig |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 46.6% |
| Age | 40 yr | 32 yr |
| Price | £1299 | £1500 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £1299 vs £1500.
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
- +More affordable (£1299 vs £1500)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1500 vs £1299)
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 Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 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 Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)