The Antiquary 21 Year Old vs Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

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

The Antiquary 21 Year OldTalisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)
DistilleryThe AntiquaryTalisker
RegionOther ScotchIsland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV43%57.3%
Age21 yr15 yr
Price£84.9£112.5
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

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

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness90/100
Beginner40/100
Value44/100

The Antiquary 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Antiquary 21 Year Old is better value at £85 vs £113.

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 £112.5)
  • +Longer maturation (21 vs 15 years)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness

Cons

  • High ABV (57.3%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£112.5 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 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Only The Antiquary 21 Year Old

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitTobaccoNutty

Only Talisker 15 Year Old (Special Release 2019)

SmokeyVanillaMedicinal

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