Reference Series III.1 vs Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Reference Series III.1
Reference Series
★ 5.00
£279
Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)
Master of Malt
★ 5.00
£287
| Reference Series III.1 | Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Reference Series | Master of Malt |
| Region | Other Scotch | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 47.7% | 43% |
| Age | NAS | 40 yr |
| Price | £278.95 | £286.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Reference Series III.1
Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)
Reference Series III.1
Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)
Quick verdict
Reference Series III.1 is better value at £279 vs £287.
For beginners: Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Reference Series III.1
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£278.95 vs £286.95)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More widely reviewed by the community
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£286.95 vs £278.95)
Who should buy Reference?
Reference Series III.1 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.
Who should buy Master?
Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd 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 Reference Series III.1
Only Master of Malt 40 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)