Yoichi 20 Year Old vs Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

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

Yoichi 20 Year OldPort Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky
DistilleryYoichiPort Ellen
Region
CountryJapanUnited Kingdom
TypeSingle Malt
ABV52%40%
Age20 yrNAS
Price£2500£3750
Rating4.33/5

Yoichi 20 Year Old

Smoke64/100
Sweetness43/100
Beginner35/100
Value2/100

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

Smoke65/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Yoichi 20 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Yoichi 20 Year Old is rated higher (4.33 vs 0.00).

Yoichi 20 Year Old is better value at £2500 vs £3750.

For beginners: Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Yoichi 20 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.3/5)
  • +More affordable (£2500 vs £3750)

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£3750 vs £2500)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.3)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Yoichi?

Yoichi 20 Year Old 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.

Who should buy Port?

Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Yoichi 20 Year Old

OilyDried FruitMalt ExtractToasted

Only Port Ellen 1978 / 24 Year Old / 2nd Release (2002) Islay Whisky

LeatheryKippery

Explore more