Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) vs Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Starward
£88
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Talisker
★ 5.00
£113
| Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) | Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Starward | Talisker |
| Region | — | Island |
| Country | Australia | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 48% | 57.3% |
| Age | NAS | 15 yr |
| Price | £87.95 | £112.5 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Quick verdict
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) is better value at £88 vs £113.
For beginners: Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Pros
- +More affordable (£87.95 vs £112.5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (57.3%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£112.5 vs £87.95)
Who should buy Starward?
Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Who should buy Talisker?
Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.
Tasting notes
Only Starward Botrytis 2017 (bottled 2024)
Only Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)