Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) vs Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Bowmore
£599

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£725
| Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) | Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Bowmore | Ardbeg |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 47.8% | 48.1% |
| Age | 28 yr | 24 yr |
| Price | £599 | £724.95 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) is better value at £599 vs £725.
For beginners: Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) is more approachable (40/100 beginner score).
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£599 vs £724.95)
- +Longer maturation (28 vs 24 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£724.95 vs £599)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Bowmore?
Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017) 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 Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 24 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
Both taste of
Only Bowmore 1988 (bottled 2017)
Only Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)