Paul John Brilliance vs Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)

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

Paul John BrilliancePenderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)
DistilleryPaul JohnPenderyn
Region
CountryIndiaWales
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%46%
AgeNASNAS
Price£42.5£54.9
Rating4.31/55.00/5

Paul John Brilliance

Smoke0/100
Sweetness72/100
Beginner80/100
Value100/100

Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner65/100
Value91/100

Paul John Brilliance

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.31).

Paul John Brilliance is better value at £43 vs £55.

For beginners: Paul John Brilliance is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).

Paul John Brilliance

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£42.5 vs £54.9)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (4.3 vs 5.0)

Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)

Pros

  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£54.9 vs £42.5)

Who should buy Paul?

Paul John Brilliance 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 Penderyn?

Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales) 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

Both taste of

VanillaHoney

Only Paul John Brilliance

Fresh Fruit

Only Penderyn Hiraeth (Icons of Wales)

ToastedMalt Extract

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