Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldThe Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)
DistilleryArdbegGlenturret
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%42.6%
Age21 yr25 yr
Price£599£982.62
Rating5.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness67/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

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

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £983.

For beginners: The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release) is more approachable (85/100 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 £982.62)

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (25 vs 21 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£982.62 vs £599)
  • 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 The?

The Glenturret 25 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.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Only The Glenturret 25 Year Old (2023 Release)

SherriedDried FruitCitricVanillaOld Wood

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