Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon

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

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon
DistilleryThat Boutique-y Whisky CompanySmooth Ambler
Region
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeSingle MaltBourbon
ABV48.8%46%
Age11 yrNAS
Price£66.95£53.95
Rating5.00/54.67/5

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

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

Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness69/100
Beginner80/100
Value86/100

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

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Islay #4 11 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).

Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon is better value at £54 vs £67.

For beginners: Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).

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

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£66.95 vs £53.95)

Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£53.95 vs £66.95)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)
  • 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 Smooth?

Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon 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 Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon

ChocolateHoneyVanillaToasted

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