Yamazaki 10 Year Old vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Yamazaki 10 Year Old | Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Yamazaki | Talisker |
| Region | — | Island |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 59.4% |
| Age | 10 yr | 8 yr |
| Price | £399 | £299 |
| Rating | 4.06/5 | 5.00/5 |
Yamazaki 10 Year Old
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Yamazaki 10 Year Old
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Quick verdict
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.06).
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is better value at £299 vs £399.
For beginners: Yamazaki 10 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Yamazaki 10 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Longer maturation (10 vs 8 years)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£399 vs £299)
- −Lower community rating (4.1 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£299 vs £399)
Cons
- −High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Yamazaki?
Yamazaki 10 Year Old 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 Talisker?
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) 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.
Tasting notes
Only Yamazaki 10 Year Old
Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)