South Island 21 Year Old 1990 vs Tullibardine 25 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

South Island 21 Year Old 1990
The New Zealand Whisky Company
£117

Tullibardine 25 Year Old
Tullibardine
★ 5.00
£155
| South Island 21 Year Old 1990 | Tullibardine 25 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The New Zealand Whisky Company | Tullibardine |
| Region | — | Highland |
| Country | New Zealand | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 40% | 43% |
| Age | 21 yr | 25 yr |
| Price | £116.59 | £155 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
South Island 21 Year Old 1990
Tullibardine 25 Year Old
South Island 21 Year Old 1990
Tullibardine 25 Year Old
Quick verdict
Tullibardine 25 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
South Island 21 Year Old 1990 is better value at £117 vs £155.
For beginners: South Island 21 Year Old 1990 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
South Island 21 Year Old 1990
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£116.59 vs £155)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Tullibardine 25 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Longer maturation (25 vs 21 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£155 vs £116.59)
Who should buy South?
South Island 21 Year Old 1990 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 Tullibardine?
Tullibardine 25 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only South Island 21 Year Old 1990
Only Tullibardine 25 Year Old