The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release) vs Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release)Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryThe MacallanDalmore
RegionSpeysideHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43%42%
Age18 yr25 yr
Price£699£715
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner70/100
Value7/100

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release) is better value at £699 vs £715.

For beginners: Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£699 vs £715)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Longer maturation (25 vs 18 years)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£715 vs £699)

Who should buy The?

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Who should buy Dalmore?

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) 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

Both taste of

SherriedDried Fruit

Only The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2019 Release)

CitricToasted

Only Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

VanillaOld WoodHoney

Explore more