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 Malt
Lower East Side
★ 5.00
£30

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay
Master of Malt
£35
| Lower East Side Blended Malt | Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lower East Side | Master of Malt |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £29.9 | £34.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lower East Side Blended Malt
Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay
Lower East Side Blended Malt
Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay
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
Only Lower East Side Blended Malt
Only Master of Malt 12 Year Old Islay