Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldLongrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood
DistilleryArdbegSpringbank
RegionIslayCampbeltown
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%56.1%
Age21 yr14 yr
Price£599£450
Rating5.00/54.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood

Smoke64/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value9/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).

Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood is better value at £450 vs £599.

For beginners: Ardbeg 21 Year Old is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (21 vs 14 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£599 vs £450)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£450 vs £599)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (56.1%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)

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.

Who should buy Longrow?

Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood 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

Both taste of

SmokeyLeatheryOily

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

MedicinalKippery

Only Longrow 14 Year Old 1997 - Burgundy Wood

Dried Fruit

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