Michael Jackson Blend vs Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky

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

Michael Jackson BlendBallantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky
DistilleryBerry Bros. & RuddBallantine's
Region
CountryEnglandUnited Kingdom
TypeBlended
ABV43%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£90.36£135
Rating5.00/5

Michael Jackson Blend

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner75/100
Value55/100

Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Michael Jackson Blend

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Michael Jackson Blend is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £135.

For beginners: Michael Jackson Blend is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Michael Jackson Blend

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£90.36 vs £135)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£135 vs £90.36)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Who should buy Michael?

Michael Jackson Blend 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 Ballantine's?

Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

VanillaHoneyToastedMalt Extract

Only Michael Jackson Blend

Oily

Only Ballantine's 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Blended Scotch Whisky

Old Wood

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