Ardbeg 1978 vs Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)

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

Ardbeg 1978Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)
DistilleryArdbegConvalmore
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43%48.2%
Age20 yr32 yr
Price£999£1100
Rating4.00/5

Ardbeg 1978

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value4/100

Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 1978

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 1978 is rated higher (4.00 vs 0.00).

Ardbeg 1978 is better value at £999 vs £1100.

For beginners: Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 1978

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£999 vs £1100)

Cons

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

Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (32 vs 20 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£1100 vs £999)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.0)
  • 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 Convalmore?

Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017) 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.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 1978

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyOilyLeathery

Only Convalmore 32 Year Old 1984 (Special Release 2017)

Old WoodHoneyVanillaSherriedToasted

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