Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) vs The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Bowmore
£599
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
The Macallan
★ 5.00
£399
| Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) | The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | The Macallan |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 47.8% | 43% |
| Age | 28 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £599 | £399 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
Quick verdict
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is better value at £399 vs £599.
For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (28 vs 18 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£599 vs £399)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£399 vs £599)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy The?
The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Tasting notes
Only Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Only The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)