Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) vs The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

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

Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5
DistilleryWemyss MaltsThe Lakes Distillery
Region
CountryScotlandEngland
TypeBlended MaltSingle Malt
ABV42.3%52%
Age25 yrNAS
Price£110£84.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value45/100

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner65/100
Value59/100

Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5 is better value at £85 vs £110.

For beginners: Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£110 vs £84.95)

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£84.95 vs £110)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (52%) — may need water

Who should buy Velvet?

Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts) 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 The?

The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5 suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedHoney

Only Velvet Fig 25 Year Old (Wemyss Malts)

Dried FruitChocolateOld Wood

Only The Lakes Whiskymaker's Reserve No.5

VanillaToasted

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