Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release) vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)

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

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release)Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
DistillerySpringbankTalisker
RegionCampbeltownIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV57.1%59.4%
Age12 yr8 yr
Price£299£299
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release)

Smoke65/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner20/100
Value17/100

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value17/100

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is better value at £299 vs £299.

For beginners: Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release) is more approachable (20/100 beginner score).

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 8 years)

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Springbank?

Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release) 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.

Who should buy Talisker?

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) 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

Both taste of

SmokeyOilyKippery

Only Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength - Batch 19 (2019 Release)

LeatheryCooked Mash

Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)

Medicinal

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