Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Linkwood |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 50.3% |
| Age | 21 yr | 37 yr |
| Price | £599 | £695 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016)
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016)
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £695.
For beginners: Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£599 vs £695)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Longer maturation (37 vs 21 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (50.3%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£695 vs £599)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 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 Linkwood?
Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016) 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 Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Only Linkwood 37 Year Old 1978 (Special Release 2016)