Ardbeg 1978 vs Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023

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

Ardbeg 1978Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023
DistilleryArdbegLoch Lomond
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43%43.2%
Age20 yr25 yr
Price£999£1395
Rating4.00/5

Ardbeg 1978

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

Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023

Smoke0/100
Sweetness58/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 1978

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 1978 is rated higher (4.00 vs 0.00).

Ardbeg 1978 is better value at £999 vs £1395.

For beginners: Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023 is more approachable (60/100 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 £1395)

Cons

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

Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023

Pros

  • +Longer maturation (25 vs 20 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1395 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 Loch?

Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 1978

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyOilyLeathery

Only Loch Lomond 25 Year Old 1998 Exclusive Cask (cask 22/292-1) - 151st Open Royal Liverpool 2023

Dried FruitNuttySherriedVanillaOld Wood

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