Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release vs Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Smooth Ambler
★ 5.00
£299

Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Suntory
★ 4.50
£240
| Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release | Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Smooth Ambler | Suntory |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | America | Japan |
| Type | Bourbon | Blended |
| ABV | 47.1% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £299 | £240 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.50/5 |
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Quick verdict
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.50).
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s is better value at £240 vs £299.
For beginners: Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Pros
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£299 vs £240)
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£240 vs £299)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.5 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Smooth?
Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Bourbon character.
Who should buy Suntory?
Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s 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
Only Smooth Ambler Old Scout 12 Year Old Bourbon (cask 9484) Single Barrel Release
Only Suntory Kakubin Whisky - 1980s