Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003) vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003)Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryPort EllenLaphroaig
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV57.3%46.6%
Age24 yr32 yr
Price£1999£1500
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value3/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1999.

For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (57.3%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£1999 vs £1500)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £1999)
  • +Longer maturation (32 vs 24 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Port?

Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003) 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.

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) 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

SmokeyLeatheryOld Wood

Only Port Ellen 24 Year Old 1979 - 3rd Release (Special Release 2003)

Medicinal

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried Fruit

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