Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt) vs Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£140
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£113
| Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt) | Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Laphroaig | Talisker |
| Region | Islay | Island |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 55.4% | 57.3% |
| Age | 14 yr | 15 yr |
| Price | £139.95 | £112.5 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt)
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt)
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Quick verdict
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is better value at £113 vs £140.
For beginners: Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is more approachable (40/100 beginner score).
Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (55.4%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£139.95 vs £112.5)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£112.5 vs £139.95)
Cons
- −High ABV (57.3%) — may need water
Who should buy Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt) 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 Talisker?
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Laphroaig 14 Year Old 2005 (Master of Malt)
Only Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)