Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L)
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 (1L)
Famous Grouse
★ 5.00
£80
| Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | That Boutique-y Whisky Company | Famous Grouse |
| Region | — | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 48.8% | 43% |
| Age | 11 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £66.95 | £79.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L)
Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L)
Quick verdict
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 (1L) 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
- +More affordable (£66.95 vs £79.99)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 11 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£79.99 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 Famous?
Famous Grouse 12 Year Old Gold Reserve (1L) 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 (1L)