Meandering the world, one whisky at a time

Whisky of the Week Blog header 4 WOTWColour

Category: Whisky Comparison Page 7 of 10

Whisky Comparison

A combination of side by side whisky / bourbon / whiskey comparison blog posts. A look at all the most popular whiskies and how they rate next to their rivals. From bourbons and Scottish whisky to blends and single malts.  A broad collection of comparisons I have tried.

Maker’s Mark vs Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Makers Mark vs buffalo trace bourbon comparison
Let’s talk about bourbons. I discovered bourbons later on my whiskey journey. One of the first bourbons I tried was the Makers Mark, and this inspired me to explore more from this category. My palate loved the sweeter oak and vanilla notes.

Even though the category is relatively small in South Africa, I have still managed to taste quite a few releases over the years. Today I look at two of the best-known bourbon brands against each other; Maker’s Mark vs Buffalo Trace bourbon whiskey.

Comparing the distinctive red wax seal versus the bourbon that pay tribute to the pioneering spirit and the great herds of buffalo that used to roam the planes. I am always amazed at how whiskey or bourbon taste differs when you try them side by side. And how, within the bourbon category, there can be so many aroma and flavour variations.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Bourbon with glass Makers Mark vs Buffalo Trace bourbon comparison
The Buffalo Trace Distillery is in Frankfort, Kentucky. Harrison Blanton constructed the first official distillery on the side around 1812. Today it is owned by the Sazerac Company who also own Blanton’s and Eagle Rare bourbon.

Buffalo Trace was named in tribute to the mighty buffalo that carved paths through the wilderness in the trek to the Great Planes and the rugged, independent spirit of the pioneers who followed them. It has no age statement.

The Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight bourbon mash bill is not disclosed, however it is speculated that it contains a high corn percentage and less than 10% rye.

Also Read: Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

Makers Mark vs buffalo trace comparison
Maker’s Mark is distilled in Loretto, Kentucky by Beam Suntory. Production of Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey started in 1954, after William Samuels, purchased the distillery known as Burks’ Distillery. The whisky was named by Samuels’ wife, Marjorie ” who gave it the name of Maker’s Mark.

She also designed the now-classic label and came up with the red wax dipping top that gives the Makers Mark bottle its distinctive look. Maker’s Mark has no age statement. It is bottled when the maker agree that it is ready, roughly around 6 years.

The Maker’s Mark’s mash bill consists of 70% corn, 16% soft red winter wheat and 14% malted barley.




Buffalo Trace vs Maker’s Mark Bourbon

Maker's Mark vs Buffalo Trace bourbon comparison

Buffalo Trace
Maker's Mark
TypeBourbon whiskeyBourbon whiskey
ABV
45%
45%
Colour
A reddish copperLight golden copper
NoseFruity sweetness, rich and bold.  There are hints of candied fruit, caramel, vanilla, brandy pudding and oak.  Bits of spice float in the background.Cherries, brandied fruit, toasted wood and vanilla spice.  Adding a few drops of water brings out more spice and woody notes.
PalateThere are notes of fruit, orange marmalade, white pepper and oak.  Bits of cinnamon with toasted oak.  Water tones down the spice.
Full of vanilla, followed by sweet cherries and fresh red fruit.  Cinnamon and toasted oak.  A few drops of water brings butterscotch and warming nutmeg. Delicious and very easy drinking.
FinishBefore adding water long and ended in notes of spicy sweetness.  After adding water, the finish was quite flat.
Long with hints of sweetness, vanilla and caramel.
My RatingVery GoodExcellent
CommentsWithout water it is bold and interesting. Drink it neat!Delicious, A great introduction to bourbon It is smooth and easy drinking.
Price point


$33$36

It is interesting to note that people rated the Buffalo Trace higher on Whizzky compared to the Makers.  The Buffalo Trace has a sweet, bold nose with lots of vanilla and fruity sweetness. The Maker’s Mark nose is less pronounced and spicier with distinctive red fruit and oak.

However, when you taste them next to each other, the Buffalo Trace is spicier and less complicated compared to the Maker’s Mark. The Buffalo Trace bring notes of orange marmalade, cinnamon, oak and pepper. The Maker’s Mark bourbon has more cherries and vanilla on the palate. Butterscotch and nutmeg notes adds a delicious edge to the mix. The Maker’s is smooth and easy drinking.

The finish on the Maker’s Mark vs Buffalo Trace is also different. On the Buffalo Trace, the finish is medium length and spicier. The Maker’s Mark finish is warming and long with vanilla sweetness.

The price differential between these two releases are quite small.  On Amazon, the Buffalo Trace retails for around £24 and the Makers Mark for around £27.  (There are regular specials on Amazon to look out for.)

Yes, I have a favourite; the Maker’s Mark bourbon whiskey. It is what I like in a bourbon. Vanilla, juicy red cherries and toasted oak. It might be a bit more expensive than the Buffalo Trace, but I think it is worth it.

I have done a side by side comparison between the Maker’s 46 and the standard Maker’s Mark and you can see  in that blog post which one I prefer. I have also compared the Buffalo Trace to a Bulleit bourbon as well as a Woodford Reserve bourbon to see which one is better.

Also Read: Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve



Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson Irish whiskey vs Johnnie Walker Black Label blended whisky Comparison
When it comes to the world of spirits, few names resonate as widely as Jameson and Johnnie Walker Black Label. In this article, I will delve into the realms of blended whisky versus Irish whiskey as I compare these two iconic brands: Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label blended whisky.

Before we embark on our tasting journey, let’s get to know our contenders a bit better.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Blue vs Black Label Whisky

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Review and tasting notes Jameson's Irish whiskey with glass Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Comparison
Jameson Irish whiskey traces back to 1780 when John Jameson, a lawyer from Scotland, founded the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin. This marked the inception of a legacy that would conquer the world. However, turbulent world events such as the Irish War of Independence and Prohibition in the US posed significant challenges to the Irish whiskey industry.

Fast forward to the 1960s, when Irish Distillers, a conglomerate comprising Powers, Jameson, and the Cork Distillery Company, emerged to breathe new life into Irish whiskey. In the 1970s, these distilleries centralized production at the New Midleton Distillery in County Cork, a pivotal moment in the history of Jameson.

Today, Jameson is a blend of pot still and grain whiskey, triple-distilled to achieve that famed Irish smoothness. It matures for four years in oak barrels and has consistently been one of the top-selling whiskies since 1909.

As part of the Pernod Ricard portfolio, Jameson shares the stage with other esteemed Irish whiskey brands like Redbreast, Green Spot, and Yellow Spot whiskey.




Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 yo with glass Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Comparison

Now, let’s turn our attention to Johnnie Walker. You’ve undoubtedly seen the iconic walking man symbol adorning bottles in liquor stores worldwide. While Johnnie Walker boasts a range of expressions, the Johnnie Walker Black Label blended Scotch is a true gem in their collection.

Johnnie Walker, a brand synonymous with Scotch whiskey, is known for its global presence. Johnnie Walker Black Label, in particular, represents a blend of approximately 40 whiskies from across Scotland.

Part of the Diageo stable, Johnnie Walker has various releases, including the intriguing Johnnie Walker Double Black whisky.

It’s time to pit these two giants, Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label, against each other.

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black label whisky comparison

Jameson Whiskey
Johnnie Walker
Black Label Whisky


TypeIrish WhiskeyBlended Whisky
ABV
43%43%
Colour
GoldDeep polished amber
NoseFreshly baked banana bread, tropical fruit with bits of spicy wood and caramel. Grain mixed with plums, pineapple. Complex and delicious.Faint smoke, red berries and tropical fruit, Christmas pudding with heaps of vanilla toffee and winter spice.
PalateVery smooth.  Medium body but the tropical fruit deliciousness promised by the nose is not there. Bits of malt, aniseed mixed with vanilla and pepper notes. Adding water softens the pepper notes.Smooth and rich with smoke and peat perfectly balanced with fruit, citrus flowers, oak and malt.  A creamy toffee sweetness with hints of spice and cereal.  You don't even need to add water, but water releases a bit more sweetness.
FinishShort with pepper and orange rind.

Awesome.  Long and rewarding balanced between fruity sweetness, smoke, citrus peel, vanilla and warming pepper spice.


My RatingGoodDivine
CommentsThe nose promised the world.  It was delicious and complex, however, it all fell flat on the palate. Not as complex as I was expecting after the delicious nose. Rich and rewarding. Full bodied.

Price


$32$40
Pairs well withHawaiian pizza, Smoked salmon, dried fruit.A cheese platter or roasted pork.

Interestingly, the Jameson and Johnnie Walker Black Label receive similar ratings on Whizzky, yet they offer distinctly different tasting experiences.

The Jamesons bring freshly baked banana bread and tropical notes with malt, vanilla and pepper. The nose is warming and inviting, but the richness doesn’t quite translate to the palate. The Black Label has Christmas cake and red berries mixed with peat, smoke and buttery toffee. Complex, bold and delicious.

While the Jameson teases with promises on the nose, it falls short on the palate. The Black Label, however,  delivers a bold and unforgettable flavour profile that captivates the senses.

In this tasting journey, a clear favourite emerges. The Johnnie Walker Black Label commands the stage as the whisky to savour first. In my humble opinion, there is no contest. Its boldness, rich flavour, and memorable character set it apart from the Jameson Irish whiskey.

The Jameson whiskey is cheaper when compared to the Black Label.  The price differential however is small.  Jameson whiskey retail for around £25 on Amazon and the Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky for around £30.  A small price difference but a big difference in taste.

In conclusion, each iconic spirit carries its unique legacy and flavour profile. Whether you lean towards the smooth embrace of Jameson or the bold allure of Johnnie Walker Black Label, both whiskies offer a taste of tradition and craftsmanship that has conquered the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Stay tuned for more spirited comparisons as we continue our exploration of the world of whiskey. Additionally, if you’re curious about how Jameson stacks up against other Irish whiskey contenders, check out our side-by-side comparison of Jameson with Tullamore DEW in another tasting adventure.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Red Label vs Black Label whisky


Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood Whisky

Side by Side: Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood Whisky
Today I look at a side-by-side comparison of two releases from the Balvenie Distillery. The Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood single malt Scotch whisky. Comparing different distilleries side by side is fun, but I find that the most interesting comparisons are the ones between other releases from the same distillery.

When you play around with drams from the same distillery, it gives you insight into the distillery character while highlighting cask influences and ageing changes. It is a wonderful way to explore a distillery, especially now that we are in Covid lockdown.

The Balvenie Distillery is a Speyside distillery in the Convals in Dufftown, Scotland, owned by William Grant and Sons. William Grant started as a bookkeeper at Mortlach distillery 1866, where he learned the distilling trade.  After about twenty years at the Mortlach, he bought a piece of land near Balvenie Castle.

He built Balvenie 1892. It shares its water source, the Robbie Dhu springs, with Glenfiddich. It has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the most prestigious distilleries in the world. William Grant and Sons also own Glenfiddich and Kininvie Distillery.




The Balvenie Caribbean Cask Whisky

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask with glass Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood
Balvenie launched the Caribbean Cask 14 year old single malt whisky to mark the 50th anniversary of David Stewart joining the Balvenie distillery. It is part of the Balvenie core range.

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask single malt whisky has been matured in traditional oak casks for a period. Afterwards, it was finished in casks that previously held Malt Master David Stewart’s own blend of select West Indian rum. It is readily available in South Africa (before Covid anyway).

The Balvenie Doublewood  12 year old Whisky

The Balvenie Doublewood 12 yo whisky with glass Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood
The Balvenie Doublewood 12 year old whisky is also part of the core series and readily available. (Well it was available before Covid and lockdown anyway) It was launched in 1993.

The Balvenie DoubleWood single malt Scotch spends 12 years maturing in traditional American oak ex-bourbon barrels and is then moved to Spanish oak ex-Oloroso sherry casks for an additional nine months.

Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood 12 yo Whisky

Balvenie Caribbean Cask vs Doublewood Whisky

Balvenie Double Wood
Balvenie Caribbean Cask
RegionSpeyside WhiskySpeyside Whisky
ABV
43%43%
Colour
Polished amber and burnt copperGolden wheat
NoseBits of oak intertwined with sherry. Fresh grapes and red berries and spices with vanilla. Rich and inviting.
Ripe mango, pineapple and guava, toffee, Christmas cake and plump rum-soaked raisins. Hints of florals and malt intermingling with oak. Fudge and lashings of spices.
PalateSherry sweetness mixed with oak, honey and vanilla with mild nutmeg and cinnamon spice at the end. Bits of dried fruit and nuts. Not as complex as I expected. Medium body.Mango and spicy notes, creamy caramel toffee, vanilla, oak, tipsy tart and ginger. Chewy and spicy.

FinishMedium length with spicy, slightly drying notes and a hint of sweetness.Long and lingering.  Notes of pectin and pepper.
My RatingVery GoodExcellent
CommentsGreat introduction to the Balvenie house style
Chewy and rich and very delicious.

Price


$76$95
Pairs well withGrilled Haloumi, smoked cheddar cheese, smoked duck.Camembert or brie cheese, mushroom risotto.

A side by side comparison like this is fascinating. You can pick up the Balvenie Distillery character notes of fruit, vanilla and honey in both these releases. The base of both the two releases is noticeably Balvenie. Both are smooth and very drinkable.

But I found the Balvenie Doublewood single malt delicate and not as complicated as I was expecting. The nose was creamy and delicious, but the palate did not quite live up to the promises the nose made. It had notes of oak, sherry, honey, nutmeg and cinnamon.

I have to note that this is the start of the Balvenie range and a great way to start exploring the distillery.

However, the Balvenie Caribbean Cask single malt is just delicious. It is big, bold, wonderfully balanced and chewy. Tropical mango mixed with Christmas cake, oak, toffee and pepper. Slightly more spicy than the Doublewood.

The Caribbean Cask is my favourite releases between these two. Aged for two years longer than the Doublewood, the extra time in the wood and the addition to the rum finishing adds a rich extra dimension.

This release makes me dream of tropical islands, especially now that we are confined to one place during lock down.

There is also a Balvenie Golden Cask which is a limited edition also finished in rum. I did a side by side comparison between the Golden Cask and the Caribbean Cask as well to see how they differ.



Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve bourbon whiskey comparison
Welcome to another instalment of my side-by-side comparison series, where today, I’ll be delving into the world of fine whiskey as I pit Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve bourbon.

Exploring the nuances between these two exceptional spirits has been an absolute delight, as it’s amazing how much more you can appreciate a drink when you have something to measure it against.

In the past year, I’ve ventured into the realm of American whiskey, comparing Woodford Reserve to Jack Daniels Single Barrel and pitting Gentleman Jack against Jack Daniels Old No 7.

But today, it’s all about the showdown between Gentleman Jack and Woodford Reserve – a Tennessee whiskey versus a classic bourbon, both hailing from the esteemed Brown-Forman stable.

The question on my mind: which one will emerge as my favourite after this side-by-side tasting?

Gentleman Jack Whiskey

Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack whiskey with glass

Let’s begin with Gentleman Jack. Introduced in 1988, this Tennessee whiskey was crafted to cater to those seeking a more refined, premium brand experience. Its unique 3- 5 day double filtration process through sugar maple charcoal (Lincoln County process) sets it apart.

The mash bill for Gentleman Jack comprises 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley. First, it undergoes charcoal mellowing before ageing in the barrel. Then, it receives a second sugar maple charcoal mellowing after maturation, just before bottling.

This process has made Gentleman Jack a globally recognized Tennessee whiskey.

Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon with glass
Now, onto Woodford Reserve, a brand synonymous with small-batch Kentucky bourbon whiskey. Its lineage traces back to 1797 when distiller Elijah Pepper began crafting small quantities of whiskey, eventually establishing a distillery.

Over the years, the distillery passed through various hands and saw periods of neglect. However, the legacy of Woodford Reserve lives on. Its mashbill features a notably higher percentage of rye, with a composition of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt.

While it doesn’t carry an age statement, Woodford Reserve typically matures for around 6 years.




Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon Comparison

Gentleman Jack whiskey
Woodford Reserve Bourbon
TypeTennessee whiskeyBourbon whiskey
Mashbill80% corn, 8% rye, 12% malted barley72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malt
ABV
43%43.2%
Colour
Golden dark copperClear honey amber
NoseSpicy oak, caramel and vanilla sweetness and faint hints of wood smoke. It has a sophisticated edge to it.Honey sweetness with apricots and oranges.  There are bits of condensed milk richness mixed with vanilla and hints of spices
PalateSmoky oak and hints of charcoal. Herbal notes are coming through mixed with chocolate, rich dark roast coffee, hints of pepper and cinnamon intertwined with cherry sweetness and vanilla. The palate is bold and quite a big mouthful.Oak and sweetness perfectly balanced with a bit of apricot and cinnamon spiciness.  Notes of tangy winter fruits and vanilla mixed with toffee.  Rich, buttery and smooth with a full body and a satisfying mouth feel
FinishMedium length with dark Indian spices and faint bits of charcoal and vanilla.Long and lingering and ends in notes of sweet spices
My RatingExcellentExcellent
CommentsIt has a distinctive personality, smooth, complex but it easy drinking and smoother and richer than the regular Jack Daniel's Rich and buttery with a great balance between sweet and spicy.
Price


$40$40
Pairs well withButtered NY strip steakAged Parmesan cheese, dark chocolate, roasted hazelnuts, Hawaiian Pizza

The Gentleman Jack brings notes of smoky oak, vanilla and ripe cherries.It has a green herbal note mingling with cinnamon and cardamom spice. It is smooth and easy to drink with a medium finish.

The Woodford Reserve has notes of oak, apricot and condensed milk. Winter fruits, toffee and faint oak. Rich and buttery with a bold character.

Now, the moment of truth – my verdict. Woodford Reserve bourbon takes the lead in this head-to-head comparison in my book. It boasts a richer and smoother profile when sipped side by side, offering an all-around more pleasant drinking experience.

However, it’s essential to note that Gentleman Jack is by no means a subpar whiskey. It carries its own air of sophistication and complexity. It’s a whiskey that can certainly hold its own, and I wouldn’t turn down a second glass. It’s just that my palate leaned towards the sweeter notes of the Woodford Reserve bourbon.

In the UK, a bottle of Woodford Reserve retail for around £30 on Amazon and in comparison, the Gentleman Jack retail for around £31.  Both these releases are in the affordable category.

As for my collection, I’ll be replenishing my bottle of Woodford Reserve without hesitation. So, whether you lean towards the elegance of Gentleman Jack or the bold allure of Woodford Reserve, one thing’s for sure – both these fine spirits are worthy of a spot in any whiskey lover’s collection.

Also Read: Woodford Reserve Rye vs Bulleit Rye whiskey



Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa Whisky

Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa single malt whisky comparison
In this latest installment of our side-by-side whisky comparison series, we delve into the world of Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa, two exceptional single malt peaty expressions from the renowned Ardbeg distillery on Islay.

Peaty Ardbeg has unquestionably earned its status as a cult favourite globally in recent years. Whisky enthusiasts eagerly anticipate each Ardbeg Day, hoping for a special release to capture their hearts.

Yet, while the limited editions are indeed enticing, it is the core range that truly shines. These readily available, relatively affordable bottles are the true stars of the Ardbeg show. John’s favourite is the formidable Uigeadail, while I have a soft spot for the softer An Oa whisky.

What could be more enjoyable than a head-to-head comparison of these two peat-driven titans? It’s my favourite versus John’s favourite, and we’re about to uncover the nuances that set them apart.

Also ReadChivas Regal 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky

Ardbeg An Oa Whisky

Review and tasting notes Ardbeg An Oa whisky with glass Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa single malt whisky comparison
Let’s begin with the Ardbeg An Oa Islay single malt whisky, a pivotal addition to the core range since 2009. Named after the Mull of Oa in the southwestern part of Islay, this expression draws its inspiration from the Mull’s ability to shield the Kildaton from the harshest Atlantic storms, marking the island’s southernmost point.

The maturation process of Ardbeg An Oa involves a blend of casks, including PX, charred virgin oak, and ex-bourbon. These elements harmoniously meld in Dr. Bill Lumsden’s innovative French oak ‘Gathering Vat.’ Notably, Ardbeg An Oa remains unchill-filtered, preserving its full character and complexity.




Ardbeg Uigeadail Whisky

Review and tasting notes Ardbeg Uigeadail whisky with glass Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa single malt whisky comparison
On the other hand, the name Ardbeg Uigeadail single malt Scotch whisky originates from the Scottish Gaelic phrase meaning ‘dark and mysterious place,’ paying homage to the loch from which Ardbeg sources its peat-laden waters. This particular expression marries the traditional smokiness associated with Ardbeg with the rich, raisiny notes imparted by old ex-Sherry casks.

Launched in 2003, it has consistently garnered awards, a testament to its exceptional quality.
In a milestone year, 2009, Ardbeg Uigeadail was bestowed the title of ‘World Whisky of the Year’ by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible.

Murray lauded its “utter silky brilliance” and the “complexity on a level only a handful of distilleries in the world can even dream of reaching.” This whisky holds a special place in the hearts of connoisseurs.

Also Read: Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 yo Whisky

Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa Whisky

Uigeadail vs An Oa whisky comparison

Ardbeg An Oa
Ardbeg Uigeadail
RegionIslay WhiskyIslay Whisky
ABV
46.6%54.2%
Colour
Light gold
Light amber
NosePeat, creamy honey, salted liquorice with hints of cough syrup. In the middle sweet vanilla floats about mingling with bits of toasted nuts and pine needles. It’s complex, subtle and different all at once. Faint smoke lurks around.


Peat hits you like a wet cloth in the face. Smoke, iodine and medicinal notes follow soon after. You know you are dealing with an Ardbeg! Raisins, hints of honey and spice follow in the background. It's complex and rich.

PalateAsh, peat, soft honey, sweet vanilla and cinnamon sugar, hints of chocolate and toasted oak. Faint hints of lemon pepper. It’s smooth and velvety. Water softens the few rough edges and adds more sweetness. A huge mouthful of peat! Malt, fruity sweetness and bonfire. Peat and smoke fill your mouth. Notes of sherry and Christmas cake come through. Some medicinal notes and dark chocolate.
FinishSmoothly with a long and lingering finish that hug and comfort you like a favourite jersey. Filled with sweetness and bits of nut.

The finish is long and lingering. Starting off with raisins and honey it ends with notes of smoke, pepper and espresso. Along the way, it evolves in complexity and richness and continues long after you have swallowed.

My RatingDivineExcellent
CommentsRich and comforting.
The finish is beautiful!
Price


$65$90
Pairs well withStrong Cheese, salmon sashimi and pulled pork Roquefort cheese, smoked lamb or very dark chocolate

We had a delightful afternoon on the patio tasting and debating which of these two remarkable whiskies reign supreme. Fortunately, we had a friend visiting from Australia, a fellow peat enthusiast, who proved the perfect addition to our tasting panel.

The Uigeadail single malt is a powerhouse, boasting bold, in-your-face peat intertwined with salt and medicinal notes. Fruity sweetness, Christmas cake and sherry mixed with raisins and dark chocolate.

In contrast, Ardbeg An Oa exudes an elegance where peat is gracefully balanced by sweetness and gentle sea breezes. Honey, hints of vanilla and cinnamon, toasted nuts mingle with creamy oak and lemon pepper.

Both are undeniably delicious in their own right. However, the An Oa’s creamy sweetness and balanced complexity tip the scales slightly in its favour. It’s the kind of whisky that’s approachable (so much so that we nearly polished off the entire bottle). Yet, it harbours a complexity that keeps you intrigued with every sip.

And as luck would have it, I had some blue cheese and crackers on hand. The pairing of this robust cheese with the peaty whisky created a symphony of flavours that can only be described as a moment of perfection dancing on your taste buds.

There’s no definitive winner in the debate of Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa single malt whisky; it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you favour the bold, smoky embrace of Uigeadail or the elegant complexity of An Oa, both whiskies are a testament to Ardbeg’s mastery in crafting exceptional peated spirits.

So, gather your friends, pour a dram of each, and embark on your own journey to discover which one speaks to your heart the loudest.

I have also looked at the side by side comparison between Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Uigeadail whisky and evaluated their differences.

Also Read: Evan Williams vs Jim Beam Bourbon



Page 7 of 10

Powered by WordPress & Theme by Anders Norén