Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£725
Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)
Rosebank
★ 5.00
£999
| Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Rosebank |
| Region | Islay | Lowland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 48.1% | 53.8% |
| Age | 24 yr | 21 yr |
| Price | £724.95 | £999 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £725 vs £999.
For beginners: Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£724.95 vs £999)
- +Longer maturation (24 vs 21 years)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (53.8%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£999 vs £724.95)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy Rosebank?
Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011) 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 Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Only Rosebank 21 Year Old 1990 (Special Release 2011)