Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi | Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Hakushu | Talisker |
| Region | — | Island |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 59.4% |
| Age | NAS | 8 yr |
| Price | £375 | £299 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Quick verdict
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) is better value at £299 vs £375.
For beginners: Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
Cons
- −More expensive (£375 vs £299)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£299 vs £375)
Cons
- −High ABV (59.4%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Suntory?
Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi 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 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
Only Suntory 1981 Kioke Shikomi
Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018)