Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi) vs Rock Island Sherry Edition

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

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)Rock Island Sherry Edition
DistilleryCaol IlaRock Island
RegionIslayIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV60.7%46.8%
Age9 yrNAS
Price£49.95£50
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner25/100
Value0/100

Rock Island Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Island Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Island Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi) is better value at £50 vs £50.

For beginners: Rock Island Sherry Edition is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£49.95 vs £50)

Cons

  • High ABV (60.7%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Rock Island Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£50 vs £49.95)

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Rock?

Rock Island Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2001 (Adelphi)

MedicinalOilyKippery

Only Rock Island Sherry Edition

SherriedDried FruitSandyNutty

Explore more