McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon vs Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

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

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum RibbonWeeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old
DistilleryDouglas McGibbonWeeknight Whisky
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV40%40%
Age12 yr8 yr
Price£27.5£31.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner85/100
Value100/100

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner70/100
Value100/100

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon is better value at £28 vs £32.

For beginners: McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£27.5 vs £31.95)
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 8 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£31.95 vs £27.5)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy McGibbon's?

McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon 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 Weeknight?

Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old 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

Only McGibbon's 12 Year Old Platinum Ribbon

VanillaHoneyFresh FruitToasted

Only Weeknight Whisky Islay 8 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalOilyLeathery

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