Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) vs Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

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

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
DistilleryGlen SpeyBruichladdich
RegionSpeysideIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV50.4%47.4%
Age21 yr23 yr
Price£133.99£109.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness72/100
Beginner60/100
Value37/100

Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner40/100
Value45/100

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £110 vs £134.

For beginners: Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (50.4%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£133.99 vs £109.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£109.95 vs £133.99)
  • +Longer maturation (23 vs 21 years)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Glen?

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) 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 Bruichladdich?

Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Only Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

Fresh FruitCitricVanillaHoneyOld Wood

Only Bruichladdich 23 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKipperyVegetative

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