MacNair's Lum Reek vs Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

MacNair's Lum Reek
MacNair's
★ 5.00
£42

Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Dalmore
£31
| MacNair's Lum Reek | Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | MacNair's | Dalmore |
| Region | — | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 43% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £41.95 | £31.23 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
MacNair's Lum Reek
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
MacNair's Lum Reek
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Quick verdict
MacNair's Lum Reek is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £31 vs £42.
For beginners: Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
MacNair's Lum Reek
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£41.95 vs £31.23)
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£31.23 vs £41.95)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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 Dalmore?
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only MacNair's Lum Reek
Only Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)