MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old vs Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old
MacNair's
★ 5.00
£47
Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Braeval (AKA Braes of Glenlivet)
★ 5.00
£50
| MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old | Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | MacNair's | Braeval (AKA Braes of Glenlivet) |
| Region | — | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 57.7% |
| Age | 12 yr | 9 yr |
| Price | £47 | £49.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old
Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old
Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Quick verdict
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old is better value at £47 vs £50.
For beginners: Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£47 vs £49.95)
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 9 years)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (57.7%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£49.95 vs £47)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy MacNair's?
MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.
Who should buy Braeval?
Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) 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 MacNair's Lum Reek 12 Year Old
Only Braeval 9 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)