Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldTomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1
DistilleryArdbegTomatin
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%46%
Age21 yr36 yr
Price£599£494.02
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner60/100
Value10/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1 is better value at £494 vs £599.

For beginners: Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1 is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£599 vs £494.02)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£494.02 vs £599)
  • +Longer maturation (36 vs 21 years)

Cons

  • 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 Tomatin?

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Only Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

ChocolateVanillaOld WoodSherriedToasted

Where to buy

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Tomatin 36 Year Old 1977 - Batch 1

Explore more