Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release) vs Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Bowmore
£1750
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Strathisla
★ 5.00
£1299
| Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release) | Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Strathisla |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 45.1% | 43% |
| Age | 30 yr | 40 yr |
| Price | £1750 | £1299 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Quick verdict
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £1299 vs £1750.
For beginners: Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1750 vs £1299)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release) 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 Strathisla?
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) 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.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 30 Year Old (2020 Release)
Only Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)