Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky vs The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)

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

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay WhiskyThe Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)
DistilleryCaol IlaThe Macallan
RegionSpeyside
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40%43%
AgeNAS18 yr
Price£600£399
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner70/100
Value13/100

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is better value at £399 vs £600.

For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£600 vs £399)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £600)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy The?

The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Tasting notes

Only Caol Ila 1974 / 23 Year Old / First Cask #12470 Islay Whisky

SmokeyOld Wood

Only The Macallan 18 Year Old Triple Cask (2019 Release)

SherriedVanillaDried FruitToastedHoney

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