Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) vs Tullibardine 25 Year Old

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

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)Tullibardine 25 Year Old
DistilleryThree RiversTullibardine
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV58.9%43%
Age6 yr25 yr
Price£225£155
Rating5.00/5

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner25/100
Value0/100

Tullibardine 25 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness57/100
Beginner70/100
Value32/100

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Tullibardine 25 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Tullibardine 25 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Tullibardine 25 Year Old is better value at £155 vs £225.

For beginners: Tullibardine 25 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)

Pros

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

Cons

  • High ABV (58.9%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£225 vs £155)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Tullibardine 25 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£155 vs £225)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Islay?

Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers) 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 Tullibardine?

Tullibardine 25 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Toasted

Only Islay 6 Year Old 2009 (Three Rivers)

SmokeySherriedOilyDried Fruit

Only Tullibardine 25 Year Old

Malt ExtractHoneyVanillaNutty

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