Michael Jackson Blend vs Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

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

Michael Jackson BlendClynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)
DistilleryBerry Bros. & RuddClynelish
RegionHighland
CountryEnglandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%48.4%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£90.36£136.45
Rating5.00/5

Michael Jackson Blend

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

Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Michael Jackson Blend

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £136.

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 £136.45)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£136.45 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 Clynelish?

Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Malt ExtractOily

Only Michael Jackson Blend

VanillaHoneyToasted

Only Clynelish 12 Year Old 2011 (cask 18872) - Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

LeatherySmokey

Explore more