Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) vs Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

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

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)
DistilleryMaster of MaltLaphroaig
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV40%48.9%
Age50 yr25 yr
Price£349.95£399
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness58/100
Beginner70/100
Value14/100

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner45/100
Value13/100

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) is better value at £350 vs £399.

For beginners: Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£349.95 vs £399)
  • +Longer maturation (50 vs 25 years)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£399 vs £349.95)

Who should buy Master?

Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Sherried

Only Master of Malt 50 Year Old Speyside (2nd Edition)

Old WoodHoneyTobaccoLeatheryNutty

Only Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyOily

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