Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Reference Series II.1

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

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)Reference Series II.1
DistilleryThat Boutique-y Whisky CompanyReference Series
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV48.8%47.5%
Age11 yrNAS
Price£66.95£80.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner50/100
Value75/100

Reference Series II.1

Smoke0/100
Sweetness65/100
Beginner75/100
Value62/100

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Reference Series II.1

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £67 vs £81.

For beginners: Reference Series II.1 is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£66.95 vs £80.95)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Reference Series II.1

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£80.95 vs £66.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Islay?

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Who should buy Reference?

Reference Series II.1 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

Only Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyMedicinalDried FruitLeathery

Only Reference Series II.1

SherriedHoneyCooked Fruit

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