Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) vs Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

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

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
DistilleryLaphroaigPort Ellen
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46.6%40%
Age32 yr16 yr
Price£1500£1495
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value3/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £1495 vs £1500.

For beginners: Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (32 vs 16 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1500 vs £1495)

Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£1495 vs £1500)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy Port?

Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SmokeyLeatheryOld Wood

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried Fruit

Only Port Ellen 16 Year Old 1970 - Connoisseur's Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)

MedicinalKippery

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