The Antiquary 21 Year Old vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)

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

The Antiquary 21 Year OldTalisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)
DistilleryThe AntiquaryTalisker
RegionOther ScotchIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%58.7%
Age21 yr8 yr
Price£84.9£92.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

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

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner30/100
Value54/100

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is better value at £85 vs £93.

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

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£84.9 vs £92.95)
  • +Longer maturation (21 vs 8 years)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (58.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£92.95 vs £84.9)

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.

Who should buy Talisker?

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024) 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.

Tasting notes

Only The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitTobaccoNutty

Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2024)

SmokeyToastedVanillaLeatheryMedicinal

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