Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits vs Old Perth Number 1 Release

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

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star SpiritsOld Perth Number 1 Release
DistillerySouth Star SpiritsOld Perth
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV48%43%
Age8 yrNAS
Price£42.5£27.99
Rating4.00/55.00/5

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits

Smoke67/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner50/100
Value94/100

Old Perth Number 1 Release

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Old Perth Number 1 Release

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Old Perth Number 1 Release is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).

Old Perth Number 1 Release is better value at £28 vs £43.

For beginners: Old Perth Number 1 Release is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£42.5 vs £27.99)
  • Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)

Old Perth Number 1 Release

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£27.99 vs £42.5)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Islay?

Islay 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits 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 Old?

Old Perth Number 1 Release 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 8 Year Old 2013 - South Star Spirits

SmokeyMedicinalLeatheryKipperyDried Fruit

Only Old Perth Number 1 Release

Malt ExtractHoneyVanillaNutty

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