The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
The Macallan
£2500

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Laphroaig
★ 5.00
£1500
| The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 | Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Macallan | Laphroaig |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 46.6% |
| Age | 18 yr | 32 yr |
| Price | £2500 | £1500 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £2500.
For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£2500 vs £1500)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£1500 vs £2500)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy The?
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 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.
Who should buy Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)