Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac vs WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

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

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne CognacWhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World
DistilleryMichel ForgeronWhistlePig
Region
CountryUnited KingdomAmerica
TypeRye
ABV40%43%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£110£124
Rating5.00/5

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value40/100

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac is better value at £110 vs £124.

For beginners: WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£110 vs £124)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

Pros

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

Cons

  • More expensive (£124 vs £110)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Michel?

Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy WhistlePig?

WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Honey

Only Michel Forgeron Barrique 88 Grande Champagne Cognac

Cooked FruitSmokeyToasted

Only WhistlePig 12 Year Old - Old World

SherriedDried FruitVanilla

Explore more