Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

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

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5
DistilleryThat Boutique-y Whisky CompanyThe Lakes Distillery
Region
CountryScotlandEngland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV48.8%52%
Age11 yrNAS
Price£66.95£84.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner50/100
Value75/100

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner65/100
Value59/100

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £67 vs £85.

For beginners: The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5 is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£66.95 vs £84.95)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£84.95 vs £66.95)
  • 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 The?

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5 suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Only Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyMedicinalDried FruitLeathery

Only The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

SherriedVanillaToastedHoney

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