Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Port Ellen
★ 5.00
£2500
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£1500
| Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts | Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Port Ellen | Laphroaig |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 60.9% | 46.6% |
| Age | 20 yr | 32 yr |
| Price | £2499.95 | £1500 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £2500.
For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (60.9%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£2499.95 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
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£1500 vs £2499.95)
- +Longer maturation (32 vs 20 years)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Port?
Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts 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
Only Port Ellen 20 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)