Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987 vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987
Ardmore
★ 5.00
£250
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£299
| Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987 | Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardmore | Talisker |
| Region | Highland | Island |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 47.2% | 59.4% |
| Age | 30 yr | 8 yr |
| Price | £250 | £299 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Quick verdict
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987 is better value at £250 vs £299.
For beginners: Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987 is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£250 vs £299)
- +Longer maturation (30 vs 8 years)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£299 vs £250)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Ardmore?
Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987 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 Talisker?
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Tasting notes
Only Ardmore 30 Year Old 1987
Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)