Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) vs Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£113
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Starward
£88
| Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) | Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Talisker | Starward |
| Region | Island | — |
| Country | Scotland | Australia |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 57.3% | 48% |
| Age | 15 yr | NAS |
| Price | £112.5 | £87.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Quick verdict
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) is better value at £88 vs £113.
For beginners: Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (57.3%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£112.5 vs £87.95)
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Pros
- +More affordable (£87.95 vs £112.5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Talisker?
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.
Who should buy Starward?
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Tasting notes
Only Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Only Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)