Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) vs The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old

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

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old
DistilleryTaliskerKurayoshi
RegionIsland
CountryScotlandJapan
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV57.3%43%
Age15 yr12 yr
Price£112.5£133
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness90/100
Beginner40/100
Value44/100

The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness56/100
Beginner70/100
Value38/100

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is better value at £113 vs £133.

For beginners: The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£112.5 vs £133)

Cons

  • High ABV (57.3%) — may need water

The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£133 vs £112.5)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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.

Who should buy The?

The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Only Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

SmokeyVanillaMedicinal

Only The Kurayoshi 12 Year Old

Malt ExtractHoneyToastedSherriedOld Wood

Explore more