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)Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryCaol IlaLaphroaig
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV51.2%46.6%
Age40 yr32 yr
Price£1500£1500
Rating5.00/55.00/5

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

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner30/100
Value3/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

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

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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

SmokeyOld WoodLeathery

Only Caol Ila 40 Year Old 1979 - Xtra Old Particular The Black Series (Douglas Laing)

MedicinalLeafy

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried Fruit

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