Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release vs Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)

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

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel ReleaseBruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)
DistillerySmooth AmblerBruichladdich
RegionIslay
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonSingle Malt
ABV47.1%46%
Age12 yr20 yr
Price£299£250
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner55/100
Value17/100

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner75/100
Value20/100

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) is better value at £250 vs £299.

For beginners: Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

Pros

  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£299 vs £250)

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£250 vs £299)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Smooth?

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.

Who should buy Bruichladdich?

Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition) 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

Vanilla

Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release

Old WoodToastedChocolateDried Fruit

Only Bruichladdich 20 Year Old Flirtation (2nd Edition)

SherriedCooked FruitHoneyLeafy

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