Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) vs Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)
Three Rivers
£225

Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007
Glenfiddich
★ 5.00
£299
| Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) | Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Three Rivers | Glenfiddich |
| Region | — | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 58.9% | 43% |
| Age | 6 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £225 | £299 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007
Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007
Quick verdict
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) is better value at £225 vs £299.
For beginners: Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£225 vs £299)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (58.9%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007
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 (£299 vs £225)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Islay?
Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Who should buy Glenfiddich?
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007 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.
Tasting notes
Only Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)
Only Glenfiddich 18 Year Old - Ancient Reserve Decanter - Pre 2007