Lower East Side Blended Malt vs Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

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

Lower East Side Blended MaltMaster of Malt 12 Year Old Islay
DistilleryLower East SideMaster of Malt
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%40%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£29.9£34.95
Rating5.00/5

Lower East Side Blended Malt

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

Smoke68/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Lower East Side Blended Malt

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lower East Side Blended Malt is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Lower East Side Blended Malt is better value at £30 vs £35.

For beginners: Lower East Side Blended Malt is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Lower East Side Blended Malt

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£34.95 vs £29.9)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Who should buy Lower?

Lower East Side Blended Malt 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.

Who should buy Master?

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Fresh Fruit

Only Lower East Side Blended Malt

HoneyVanillaMalt Extract

Only Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay

SmokeyMedicinalOily

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