The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019) vs MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

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

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019)MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)
DistilleryGlen OrdMacNair's
RegionHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV55%48%
Age18 yr21 yr
Price£132.36£125
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner45/100
Value38/100

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value40/100

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling) is better value at £125 vs £132.

For beginners: The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (55%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£132.36 vs £125)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£125 vs £132.36)
  • +Longer maturation (21 vs 18 years)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy The?

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019) 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.

Who should buy MacNair's?

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling) 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

Only The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

VanillaHoneyFresh FruitToasted

Only MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

SmokeySherriedDried FruitOily

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