Old Pulteney 12 Year Old vs Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

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

Old Pulteney 12 Year OldRock Oyster Sherry Edition
DistilleryPulteneyRock Island
RegionHighlandIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%46.8%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£32.95£44.5
Rating4.21/55.00/5

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness88/100
Beginner100/100
Value100/100

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.21).

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old is better value at £33 vs £45.

For beginners: Old Pulteney 12 Year Old is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£32.95 vs £44.5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.2 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£44.5 vs £32.95)

Who should buy Old?

Old Pulteney 12 Year Old 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 Rock?

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Only Old Pulteney 12 Year Old

VanillaHoneySandyOily

Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SherriedSmokeyCitricDried Fruit

Explore more