Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
That Boutique-y Whisky Company
★ 5.00
£67
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve
Famous Grouse
★ 4.93
£80
| Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | That Boutique-y Whisky Company | Famous Grouse |
| Region | — | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 48.8% | 40% |
| Age | 11 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £66.95 | £79.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.93/5 |
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve
Quick verdict
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.93).
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £67 vs £80.
For beginners: Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£66.95 vs £79.95)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 11 years)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£79.95 vs £66.95)
- −Lower community rating (4.9 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Islay?
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) 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 Famous?
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve 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
Only Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Only Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve