Michael Jackson Blend vs Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

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

Michael Jackson BlendCaol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
DistilleryBerry Bros. & RuddCaol Ila
RegionIslay
CountryEnglandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%46%
AgeNAS13 yr
Price£90.36£150
Rating5.00/5

Michael Jackson Blend

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

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Michael Jackson Blend

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £150.

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 £150)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£150 vs £90.36)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

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 Caol?

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid 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

Oily

Only Michael Jackson Blend

VanillaHoneyToastedMalt Extract

Only Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeathery

Where to buy

Michael Jackson Blend

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid

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