Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) vs Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)Ardbeg 21 Year Old
DistillerySpringbankArdbeg
RegionCampbeltownIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43.2%46%
Age21 yr21 yr
Price£499£599
Rating5.00/5

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner45/100
Value8/100

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) is better value at £499 vs £599.

For beginners: Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£499 vs £599)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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 (£599 vs £499)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Hazelburn?

Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Only Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)

SherriedVanillaDried FruitHoneyOld Wood

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

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