Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Cutty Sark Centenary Edition

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldCutty Sark Centenary Edition
DistilleryArdbegCutty Sark
RegionIslayOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV46%52.2%
Age21 yrNAS
Price£599£910
Rating5.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Cutty Sark Centenary Edition

Smoke0/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Cutty Sark Centenary Edition

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 £910.

For beginners: Ardbeg 21 Year Old is more approachable (45/100 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 £910)

Cons

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

Cutty Sark Centenary Edition

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (52.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£910 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 Cutty?

Cutty Sark Centenary Edition is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Only Cutty Sark Centenary Edition

SherriedDried FruitOld WoodToasted

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