Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky vs Balvenie 30 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Bowmore
£5000

Balvenie 30 Year Old
Balvenie
★ 5.00
£3193
| Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky | Balvenie 30 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Balvenie |
| Region | — | Speyside |
| Country | United Kingdom | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 40% | 44.2% |
| Age | NAS | 30 yr |
| Price | £5000 | £3192.95 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Balvenie 30 Year Old
Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Balvenie 30 Year Old
Quick verdict
Balvenie 30 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Balvenie 30 Year Old is better value at £3193 vs £5000.
For beginners: Balvenie 30 Year Old is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£5000 vs £3192.95)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Balvenie 30 Year Old
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch 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 Balvenie?
Balvenie 30 Year Old 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
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 1972 / 27 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Only Balvenie 30 Year Old