Rock Oyster Sherry Edition vs Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Rock Island
★ 5.00
£45

Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)
Balblair
★ 4.00
£45
| Rock Oyster Sherry Edition | Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Rock Island | Balblair |
| Region | Island | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46.8% | 49.7% |
| Age | NAS | 9 yr |
| Price | £44.5 | £44.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.00/5 |
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)
Quick verdict
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is better value at £45 vs £45.
For beginners: Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£44.5 vs £44.95)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)
Pros
- +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts
Cons
- −More expensive (£44.95 vs £44.5)
- −Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Rock?
Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.
Who should buy Balblair?
Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
Only Balblair 9 Year Old 2009 (Master of Malt)