Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky vs Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

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

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay WhiskyOld Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
DistilleryCaol IlaPulteney
RegionHighland
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40%46%
AgeNAS26 yr
Price£600£399
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness52/100
Beginner50/100
Value13/100

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £600.

For beginners: Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£600 vs £399)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £600)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy Old?

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

Old Wood

Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

CitricHoneyToastedFresh Fruit

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