Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) vs The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Pulteney
★ 5.00
£399
The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)
The Macallan
★ 5.00
£499
| Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) | The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Pulteney | The Macallan |
| Region | Highland | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 43% |
| Age | 26 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £399 | £499 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)
Quick verdict
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015) is better value at £399 vs £499.
For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£399 vs £499)
- +Longer maturation (26 vs 18 years)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£499 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 The?
The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release) 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
Only Old Pulteney 1989 Vintage (bottled 2015)
Only The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2020 Release)