Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) vs Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)

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

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)
DistilleryLaphroaigPort Ellen
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46.6%56.2%
Age32 yr22 yr
Price£1500£2500
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value2/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £2500.

For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £2500)
  • +Longer maturation (32 vs 22 years)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (56.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£2500 vs £1500)
  • 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 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001) 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SmokeyLeatheryOld Wood

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried Fruit

Only Port Ellen 22 Year Old 1979 - 1st Release (Special Release 2001)

MedicinalKippery

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