Midleton Very Rare 2016 vs Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky

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

Midleton Very Rare 2016Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky
DistilleryMidletonPort Ellen
Region
CountryIrelandUnited Kingdom
TypeBlended
ABV40%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£799£950
Rating4.91/5

Midleton Very Rare 2016

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner70/100
Value6/100

Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky

Smoke68/100
Sweetness40/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

Midleton Very Rare 2016

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Midleton Very Rare 2016 is rated higher (4.91 vs 0.00).

Midleton Very Rare 2016 is better value at £799 vs £950.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2016 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Midleton Very Rare 2016

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.9/5)
  • +More affordable (£799 vs £950)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£950 vs £799)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.9)

Who should buy Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 2016 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Who should buy Port?

Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Only Midleton Very Rare 2016

VanillaHoneyToastedDried FruitSherried

Only Port Ellen 1980 / 16 Year Old / First Cask #89/589/43 Islay Whisky

SmokeyFresh FruitMedicinalOld Wood

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