Yamazaki 1984 vs Midleton Very Rare 1996

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

Yamazaki 1984Midleton Very Rare 1996
DistilleryYamazakiMidleton
Region
CountryJapanIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV48%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£899.95£1200
Rating5.00/5

Yamazaki 1984

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

Midleton Very Rare 1996

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

Yamazaki 1984

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 1996

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Yamazaki 1984 is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Yamazaki 1984 is better value at £900 vs £1200.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 1996 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Yamazaki 1984

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£899.95 vs £1200)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Midleton Very Rare 1996

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1200 vs £899.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

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 1996 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

Old WoodVanillaSherried

Only Yamazaki 1984

ToastedNutty

Only Midleton Very Rare 1996

ChocolateDried Fruit

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