Reference Series II vs Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

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

Reference Series IILedaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
DistilleryReference SeriesTobermory
RegionOther ScotchIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV47.5%51.7%
AgeNAS18 yr
Price£104.95£89.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Reference Series II

Smoke0/100
Sweetness48/100
Beginner55/100
Value48/100

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner35/100
Value56/100

Reference Series II

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £90 vs £105.

For beginners: Reference Series II is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Reference Series II

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£104.95 vs £89.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£89.95 vs £104.95)

Cons

  • High ABV (51.7%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Reference?

Reference Series II suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Who should buy Ledaig?

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Only Reference Series II

Old WoodSherriedMalt ExtractDried FruitToasted

Only Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinalOily

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