Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018) vs Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Carsebridge
★ 5.00
£599

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Pulteney
★ 5.00
£399
| Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Carsebridge | Pulteney |
| Region | Lowland | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Grain | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43.2% | 46% |
| Age | 48 yr | 26 yr |
| Price | £599 | £399 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Quick verdict
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £599.
For beginners: Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Longer maturation (48 vs 26 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£599 vs £399)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£399 vs £599)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy Carsebridge?
Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018) 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.
Who should buy Old?
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Carsebridge 48 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)