Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966 vs Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

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

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky
DistilleryAuchentoshanPort Ellen
RegionLowland
CountryScotlandUnited Kingdom
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40.9%40%
Age44 yrNAS
Price£2999.95£3750
Rating4.67/5

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966

Smoke0/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner70/100
Value2/100

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

Smoke65/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966 is rated higher (4.67 vs 0.00).

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966 is better value at £3000 vs £3750.

For beginners: Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
  • +More affordable (£2999.95 vs £3750)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

Pros

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

Cons

  • More expensive (£3750 vs £2999.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Auchentoshan?

Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Lowland character.

Who should buy Port?

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Leathery

Only Auchentoshan 44 Year Old 1966

Old WoodSherriedDried Fruit

Only Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

SmokeyKippery

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