Bowmore 12 Year Old vs Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Bowmore 12 Year Old | Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Ardgowan |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Grain |
| ABV | 40% | 50% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £38.79 | £48.5 |
| Rating | 3.87/5 | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 12 Year Old
Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan)
Bowmore 12 Year Old
Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan)
Quick verdict
Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan) is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.87).
Bowmore 12 Year Old is better value at £39 vs £49.
For beginners: Bowmore 12 Year Old is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 12 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£38.79 vs £48.5)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (3.9 vs 5.0)
Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan)
Pros
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −More expensive (£48.5 vs £38.79)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 12 Year Old 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 Clydebuilt?
Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Grain character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 12 Year Old
Only Clydebuilt Riveter Single Grain (Ardgowan)