Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldArdbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice
DistilleryArdbegArdbeg
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%40.4%
Age21 yr26 yr
Price£599£795
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value6/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £795.

For beginners: Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£599 vs £795)

Cons

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

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (26 vs 21 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£795 vs £599)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

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 Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SmokeyMedicinalLeatheryOily

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Kippery

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