Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release) vs Midleton Very Rare 2018

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

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release)Midleton Very Rare 2018
DistilleryTaliskerMidleton
RegionIsland
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV45.8%40%
Age25 yrNAS
Price£499£699
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner45/100
Value10/100

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 2018

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release) is better value at £499 vs £699.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2018 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£499 vs £699)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£699 vs £499)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Talisker?

Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Who should buy Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 2018 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

Only Talisker 25 Year Old (2021 Release)

SmokeyOld WoodLeatheryMedicinal

Only Midleton Very Rare 2018

HoneyVanillaMalt ExtractFresh Fruit

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