Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989 vs Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989 | Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Pulteney |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 51.8% | 46% |
| Age | 16 yr | 26 yr |
| Price | £499 | £399 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Quick verdict
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £499.
For beginners: Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (51.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£499 vs £399)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£399 vs £499)
- +Longer maturation (26 vs 16 years)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989 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 Old?
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)