Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice vs Flaming Pig Black Cask

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

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's ChoiceFlaming Pig Black Cask
DistilleryCaol IlaFlaming Pig
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV46%40%
Age9 yrNAS
Price£66.95£40.24
Rating5.00/5

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner50/100
Value0/100

Flaming Pig Black Cask

Smoke64/100
Sweetness69/100
Beginner80/100
Value100/100

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Flaming Pig Black Cask

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Flaming Pig Black Cask is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Flaming Pig Black Cask is better value at £40 vs £67.

For beginners: Flaming Pig Black Cask is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£66.95 vs £40.24)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Flaming Pig Black Cask

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Caol?

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice 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 Flaming?

Flaming Pig Black 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

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice

OilyMedicinalLeathery

Only Flaming Pig Black Cask

ChocolateVanillaToastedHoney

Where to buy

Caol Ila 9 Year Old 2014 - Hepburn's Choice

Flaming Pig Black Cask

Explore more