The Antiquary 21 Year Old vs Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

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

The Antiquary 21 Year OldTalisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
DistilleryThe AntiquaryTalisker
RegionOther ScotchIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%59.7%
Age21 yr8 yr
Price£84.9£120
Rating5.00/54.50/5

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

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

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner25/100
Value38/100

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.50).

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is better value at £85 vs £120.

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
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£84.9 vs £120)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

Pros

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

Cons

  • High ABV (59.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£120 vs £84.9)
  • Lower community rating (4.5 vs 5.0)

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 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.

Tasting notes

Only The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitTobaccoNutty

Only Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2021)

SmokeyFresh FruitCitricOily

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