MacNair's Lum Reek vs New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)

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

MacNair's Lum ReekNew Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)
DistilleryMacNair'sNew Riff
Region
CountryScotlandAmerica
TypeBlended MaltBourbon
ABV46%52%
AgeNASNAS
Price£41.95£49.96
Rating5.00/54.67/5

MacNair's Lum Reek

Smoke64/100
Sweetness30/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner50/100
Value93/100

MacNair's Lum Reek

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

MacNair's Lum Reek is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).

MacNair's Lum Reek is better value at £42 vs £50.

For beginners: MacNair's Lum Reek is more approachable (50/100 beginner score).

MacNair's Lum Reek

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£41.95 vs £49.96)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£49.96 vs £41.95)
  • Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)

Who should buy MacNair's?

MacNair's Lum Reek suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Who should buy New?

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%) 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

Toasted

Only MacNair's Lum Reek

SmokeyOilyLeathery

Only New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon (52%)

VanillaChocolateCitric

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