Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt) vs Famous Grouse Highland Decanter

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt)Famous Grouse Highland Decanter
DistilleryCaol IlaFamous Grouse
RegionIslayOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV53.6%40%
Age13 yrNAS
Price£84.95£99.99
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner55/100
Value59/100

Famous Grouse Highland Decanter

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner75/100
Value50/100

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Famous Grouse Highland Decanter

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt) is better value at £85 vs £100.

For beginners: Famous Grouse Highland Decanter is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£84.95 vs £99.99)

Cons

  • High ABV (53.6%) — may need water

Famous Grouse Highland Decanter

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£99.99 vs £84.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Who should buy Famous?

Famous Grouse Highland Decanter 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

Honey

Only Caol Ila 13 Year Old 2007 (Master of Malt)

SmokeySherriedDried FruitOily

Only Famous Grouse Highland Decanter

Malt ExtractVanillaToasted

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