Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£599
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive
Dalmore
£499
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Dalmore |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 52% |
| Age | 21 yr | 17 yr |
| Price | £599 | £499 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive is better value at £499 vs £599.
For beginners: Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive 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)
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 17 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£599 vs £499)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +More affordable (£499 vs £599)
Cons
- −High ABV (52%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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 Dalmore?
Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive 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 Dalmore 17 Year Old 2000 Merlot Barrique Finish - Distillery Exclusive