Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release) vs Rock Island 21 Year Old

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release)Rock Island 21 Year Old
DistilleryBladnochRock Island
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV46.7%46.8%
Age14 yr21 yr
Price£101£99.62
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner55/100
Value50/100

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner65/100
Value50/100

Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Island 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island 21 Year Old is better value at £100 vs £101.

For beginners: Rock Island 21 Year Old is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release)

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£101 vs £99.62)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Rock Island 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +More affordable (£99.62 vs £101)
  • +Longer maturation (21 vs 14 years)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Bladnoch?

Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Who should buy Rock?

Rock Island 21 Year Old suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedDried FruitHoney

Only Bladnoch 14 Year Old (2022 Release)

Cooked FruitChocolate

Only Rock Island 21 Year Old

Old WoodSmokey

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