Reference Series I vs Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky

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

Reference Series IStoryman Blended Scotch Whisky
DistilleryReference SeriesAnnandale
RegionOther ScotchLowland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended
ABV47.5%46%
AgeNASNAS
Price£54.95£46.95
Rating4.67/55.00/5

Reference Series I

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner75/100
Value85/100

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky

Smoke64/100
Sweetness72/100
Beginner70/100
Value100/100

Reference Series I

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky is better value at £47 vs £55.

For beginners: Reference Series I is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Reference Series I

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£54.95 vs £46.95)
  • Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Reference?

Reference Series I 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.

Who should buy Storyman?

Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky 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

Both taste of

Fresh FruitHoneyVanilla

Only Reference Series I

Malt ExtractYeasty

Only Storyman Blended Scotch Whisky

Smokey

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