Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Reference Series II.3

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

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)Reference Series II.3
DistilleryTobermoryReference Series
RegionIslandOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV51.7%47.2%
Age18 yrNAS
Price£89.95£106.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner35/100
Value56/100

Reference Series II.3

Smoke0/100
Sweetness48/100
Beginner55/100
Value47/100

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Reference Series II.3

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £90 vs £107.

For beginners: Reference Series II.3 is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£89.95 vs £106.95)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (51.7%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Reference Series II.3

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£106.95 vs £89.95)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ledaig?

Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) 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.

Who should buy Reference?

Reference Series II.3 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Tasting notes

Only Ledaig 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyLeatheryMedicinalOily

Only Reference Series II.3

Old WoodSherriedDried FruitMalt ExtractToasted

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