Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) vs The Antiquary 21 Year Old

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

Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)The Antiquary 21 Year Old
DistilleryObanThe Antiquary
RegionHighlandOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV56.2%43%
Age12 yr21 yr
Price£105.53£84.9
Rating5.00/5

Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness35/100
Beginner20/100
Value0/100

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner75/100
Value59/100

Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is better value at £85 vs £106.

For beginners: The Antiquary 21 Year Old is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (56.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£105.53 vs £84.9)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£84.9 vs £105.53)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Oban?

Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) 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 The?

The Antiquary 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Tasting notes

Only Oban 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyOilyFresh FruitToastedMedicinal

Only The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitTobaccoNutty

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