Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney vs Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

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

Master of Malt 12 Year Old OrkneyVelvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)
DistilleryMaster of MaltWemyss Malts
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV40%46%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£34.95£43.9
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney

Smoke64/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner90/100
Value100/100

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

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

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney is better value at £35 vs £44.

For beginners: Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney is more approachable (90/100 beginner score).

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£34.95 vs £43.9)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

Pros

  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£43.9 vs £34.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Master?

Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

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

Only Master of Malt 12 Year Old Orkney

HoneySmokeyMalt Extract

Only Velvet Fig (Wemyss Malts)

SherriedDried FruitChocolate

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