The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release) vs Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release

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

The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release)Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release
DistilleryThe MacallanBladnoch
RegionSpeysideLowland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43%41.2%
Age30 yr29 yr
Price£4995£4995
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner70/100
Value1/100

Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value1/100

The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release is better value at £4995 vs £4995.

For beginners: Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (30 vs 29 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy The?

The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Who should buy Bladnoch?

Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedChocolateHoney

Only The Macallan 30 Year Old Sherry Oak (2021 Release)

Dried FruitToasted

Only Bladnoch 29 Year Old - Bicentennial Release

Old WoodCooked Fruit

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