The Antiquary 21 Year Old vs Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Antiquary 21 Year Old
The Antiquary
★ 5.00
£85
Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)
Caol Ila
★ 5.00
£140
| The Antiquary 21 Year Old | Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Antiquary | Caol Ila |
| Region | Other Scotch | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 57.4% |
| Age | 21 yr | 30 yr |
| Price | £84.9 | £139.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The Antiquary 21 Year Old
Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)
The Antiquary 21 Year Old
Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)
Quick verdict
The Antiquary 21 Year Old is better value at £85 vs £140.
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 £139.95)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (30 vs 21 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (57.4%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£139.95 vs £84.9)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
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 Caol?
Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt) 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
Both taste of
Only The Antiquary 21 Year Old
Only Caol Ila 30 Year Old - Single Cask (Master of Malt)