Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) vs Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy

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

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy
DistilleryPulteneySpringbank
RegionHighlandCampbeltown
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%53.5%
Age26 yr12 yr
Price£399£599
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness52/100
Beginner50/100
Value13/100

Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy

Smoke0/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value8/100

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £599.

For beginners: Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £599)
  • +Longer maturation (26 vs 12 years)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • High ABV (53.5%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£599 vs £399)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Old?

Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Springbank?

Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)

SmokeyCitricHoneyToastedFresh Fruit

Only Springbank 12 Year Old 2003 - Burgundy

SherriedCooked FruitLeatheryTobaccoOld Wood

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