Ardbeg 1978 vs Midleton Very Rare 2005
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ardbeg 1978 | Midleton Very Rare 2005 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Midleton |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Ireland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 43% | 40% |
| Age | 20 yr | NAS |
| Price | £999 | £1200 |
| Rating | 4.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Ardbeg 1978
Midleton Very Rare 2005
Ardbeg 1978
Midleton Very Rare 2005
Quick verdict
Midleton Very Rare 2005 is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).
Ardbeg 1978 is better value at £999 vs £1200.
For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2005 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 1978
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£999 vs £1200)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Midleton Very Rare 2005
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1200 vs £999)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 1978 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy Midleton?
Midleton Very Rare 2005 is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Tasting notes
Only Ardbeg 1978
Only Midleton Very Rare 2005