Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) vs Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

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

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
DistilleryPulteneyCaol Ila
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%40%
Age26 yr16 yr
Price£399£650
Rating5.00/5

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness52/100
Beginner50/100
Value13/100

Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £650.

For beginners: Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £650)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£650 vs £399)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Old?

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) 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

Smokey

Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

CitricHoneyToastedFresh Fruit

Only Caol Ila 16 Year Old 1972 - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

MedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Explore more