Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition vs Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Glenmorangie
★ 5.00
£399
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Bowmore
★ 5.00
£499
| Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition | Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glenmorangie | Bowmore |
| Region | Highland | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 51.8% |
| Age | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| Price | £399 | £499 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Quick verdict
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is better value at £399 vs £499.
For beginners: Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£399 vs £499)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (16 vs 15 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (51.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£499 vs £399)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Glenmorangie?
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989 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.
Tasting notes
Only Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Only Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Where to buy
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Bowmore 16 Year Old 1989
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange