The XXX Blend - Batch 1 vs Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
The Blended Whisky Company
★ 5.00
£200
Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)
Caol Ila
★ 5.00
£250
| The XXX Blend - Batch 1 | Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Blended Whisky Company | Caol Ila |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 42.5% | 55.9% |
| Age | 30 yr | 17 yr |
| Price | £199.95 | £250 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)
Quick verdict
The XXX Blend - Batch 1 is better value at £200 vs £250.
For beginners: The XXX Blend - Batch 1 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199.95 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (30 vs 17 years)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)
Pros
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (55.9%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199.95)
Who should buy The?
The XXX Blend - Batch 1 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.
Who should buy Caol?
Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015) 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.
Tasting notes
Only The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Only Caol Ila 17 Year Old 1997 Unpeated (Special Release 2015)