Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old vs Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old
Bruichladdich
★ 5.00
£140

Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection
Caperdonich
★ 5.00
£140
| Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old | Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bruichladdich | Caperdonich |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 59.9% | 48% |
| Age | 5 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £140 | £139.9 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old
Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection
Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old
Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection
Quick verdict
Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection is better value at £140 vs £140.
For beginners: Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (59.9%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£140 vs £139.9)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£139.9 vs £140)
- +Longer maturation (18 vs 5 years)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Octomore?
Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old 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 Caperdonich?
Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Octomore 12.1 5 Year Old
Only Caperdonich 18 Year Old Peated - Secret Speyside Collection