Hibiki 17 Year Old vs Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019

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

Hibiki 17 Year OldOctomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019
DistilleryHibikiBruichladdich
Region
CountryJapanScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%55.7%
Age17 yr12 yr
Price£699£799
Rating4.75/5

Hibiki 17 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner70/100
Value7/100

Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019

Smoke64/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner25/100
Value0/100

Hibiki 17 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Hibiki 17 Year Old is rated higher (4.75 vs 0.00).

Hibiki 17 Year Old is better value at £699 vs £799.

For beginners: Hibiki 17 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Hibiki 17 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
  • +More affordable (£699 vs £799)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (55.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£799 vs £699)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)

Who should buy Hibiki?

Hibiki 17 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Who should buy Octomore?

Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019 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 Hibiki 17 Year Old

HoneyVanillaFragantMalt Extract

Only Octomore 12 Year Old Event Horizon - Fèis Ìle 2019

SmokeySherriedDried FruitChocolateOld Wood

Explore more