Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) vs Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£299
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Smooth Ambler
★ 5.00
£299
| Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Talisker | Smooth Ambler |
| Region | Island | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 59.4% | 47.1% |
| Age | 8 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £299 | £299 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Quick verdict
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is better value at £299 vs £299.
For beginners: Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Pros
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 8 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −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 Smooth?
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.
Tasting notes
Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release