Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company vs North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company
The Character of Islay Whisky Company
★ 5.00
£400

North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater
North of Scotland
★ 5.00
£300
| Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company | North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Character of Islay Whisky Company | North of Scotland |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Grain |
| ABV | 46.3% | 42.2% |
| Age | 33 yr | 50 yr |
| Price | £399.95 | £299.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company
North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater
Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company
North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater
Quick verdict
North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater is better value at £300 vs £400.
For beginners: North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£399.95 vs £299.95)
North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£299.95 vs £399.95)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Fiona?
Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy North?
North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater 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
Only Fiona Macleod 33 Year Old - The Character of Islay Whisky Company
Only North of Scotland 50 Year Old 1971 - Stillwater