Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask vs Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask
Dallas Dhu
£259

Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask
Balvenie
★ 4.85
£199
| Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask | Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Dallas Dhu | Balvenie |
| Region | — | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 20 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £259.13 | £199 |
| Rating | — | 4.85/5 |
Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask
Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask
Quick verdict
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is rated higher (4.85 vs 0.00).
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is better value at £199 vs £259.
For beginners: Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (20 vs 12 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£259.13 vs £199)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.8)
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (4.8/5)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Dallas?
Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Who should buy Balvenie?
Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask 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
Only Dallas Dhu 20 Year Old 1977 (cask 1123) - First Cask
Only Balvenie 12 Year Old Triple Cask