Yamazaki 1984 vs Midleton Very Rare 2018

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

Yamazaki 1984Midleton Very Rare 2018
DistilleryYamazakiMidleton
Region
CountryJapanIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV48%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£899.95£699
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Yamazaki 1984

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner55/100
Value6/100

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

Yamazaki 1984

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 2018

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Midleton Very Rare 2018 is better value at £699 vs £900.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2018 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Yamazaki 1984

Pros

  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£899.95 vs £699)

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£699 vs £899.95)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Yamazaki?

Yamazaki 1984 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Who should buy Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 2018 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Vanilla

Only Yamazaki 1984

Old WoodToastedNuttySherried

Only Midleton Very Rare 2018

HoneyMalt ExtractFresh Fruit

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