Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) vs Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Strathisla
★ 5.00
£1299

Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition
Yamazaki
★ 5.00
£1999
| Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) | Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Strathisla | Yamazaki |
| Region | Speyside | — |
| Country | Scotland | Japan |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 48% |
| Age | 40 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £1299 | £1999 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition
Quick verdict
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £1299 vs £1999.
For beginners: Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£1299 vs £1999)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition
Pros
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£1999 vs £1299)
Who should buy Strathisla?
Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail) 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 Yamazaki?
Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition 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
Only Strathisla 40 Year Old (Gordon & MacPhail)
Only Yamazaki 18 Year Old - 100th Anniversary Limited Edition