Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) vs Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
Bruichladdich
★ 5.00
£250

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Smooth Ambler
★ 5.00
£299
| Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) | Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bruichladdich | Smooth Ambler |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 46% | 47.1% |
| Age | 20 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £250 | £299 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Quick verdict
Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) is better value at £250 vs £299.
For beginners: Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£250 vs £299)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Pros
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£299 vs £250)
Who should buy Bruichladdich?
Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) 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 Smooth?
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release