Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) vs Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£299
Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Hermitage
£411
| Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Talisker | Hermitage |
| Region | Island | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 59.4% | 40% |
| Age | 8 yr | NAS |
| Price | £299 | £411 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Quick verdict
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is better value at £299 vs £411.
For beginners: Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£299 vs £411)
Cons
- −High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£411 vs £299)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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.
Who should buy Hermitage?
Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.
Tasting notes
Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Only Hermitage 45 Year Old Grande Champagne Cognac