Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch) vs Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

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

Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch)Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)
DistilleryBalblairWemyss Malts
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV53.7%46%
Age20 yrNAS
Price£60.45£43.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner65/100
Value83/100

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner65/100
Value100/100

Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts) is better value at £44 vs £60.

For beginners: Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch) is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (53.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£60.45 vs £43.9)

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£43.9 vs £60.45)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Balblair?

Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch) 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.

Who should buy Velvet?

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedDried FruitChocolate

Only Balblair 20 Year Old 1990 (Bladnoch)

HoneyOld Wood

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