Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt) vs Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt)Rock Oyster Sherry Edition
DistilleryArdmoreRock Island
RegionHighlandIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV58.9%46.8%
Age13 yrNAS
Price£44.95£44.5
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness51/100
Beginner40/100
Value100/100

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is better value at £45 vs £45.

For beginners: Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • High ABV (58.9%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£44.95 vs £44.5)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£44.5 vs £44.95)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Ardlair?

Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt) 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 Rock?

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardlair 13 Year Old 2009 Single Cask (Master of Malt)

Fresh FruitHoneyMalt ExtractToasted

Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SherriedSmokeyCitricDried Fruit

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