WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World vs Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021

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

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old WorldFour Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
DistilleryWhistlePigFour Roses
Region
CountryAmericaAmerica
TypeRyeBourbon
ABV43%57.1%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£124£194.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value40/100

Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner35/100
Value26/100

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is better value at £124 vs £195.

For beginners: WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£124 vs £194.95)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£194.95 vs £124)

Who should buy WhistlePig?

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World 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 Four?

Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021 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

Both taste of

HoneyVanilla

Only WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

SherriedDried Fruit

Only Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021

Fresh FruitToasted

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