Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing) vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)
Caol Ila
★ 5.00
£1500

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£1500
| Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing) | Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Caol Ila | Laphroaig |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 51.2% | 46.6% |
| Age | 40 yr | 32 yr |
| Price | £1500 | £1500 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1500.
For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (40 vs 32 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (51.2%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Caol?
Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Who should buy Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)
Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)