Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid vs Michael Jackson Blend
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Caol Ila
£150

Michael Jackson Blend
Berry Bros. & Rudd
★ 5.00
£90
| Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid | Michael Jackson Blend | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Caol Ila | Berry Bros. & Rudd |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | England |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 46% | 43% |
| Age | 13 yr | NAS |
| Price | £150 | £90.36 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Michael Jackson Blend
Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Michael Jackson Blend
Quick verdict
Michael Jackson Blend is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £150.
For beginners: Michael Jackson Blend is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −More expensive (£150 vs £90.36)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Michael Jackson Blend
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£90.36 vs £150)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Caol?
Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid 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 Michael?
Michael Jackson Blend 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 Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Only Michael Jackson Blend
Where to buy
Caol Ila 13 Year Old 1989 - Murray McDavid
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Michael Jackson Blend
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange