Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask vs Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition

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

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple CaskHakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition
DistilleryBalvenieHakushu
RegionSpeyside
CountryScotlandJapan
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV40%43%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£199£299
Rating4.85/5

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value24/100

Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness35/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is rated higher (4.85 vs 0.00).

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is better value at £199 vs £299.

For beginners: Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.8/5)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£299 vs £199)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.8)

Who should buy Balvenie?

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Hakushu?

Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask

VanillaSherriedCooked FruitHoneyChocolate

Only Hakushu Story of the Distillery - 2024 Edition

SmokeyToastedFresh FruitOld WoodLeathery

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