The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak vs Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak
The Macallan
£799

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
Dalmore
★ 5.00
£715
| The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak | Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | The Macallan | Dalmore |
| Region | Speyside | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 42% |
| Age | 18 yr | 25 yr |
| Price | £799 | £715 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak
Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak
Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £715 vs £799.
For beginners: Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£799 vs £715)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −Niche style — may not suit all palates
Who should buy The?
The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak 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
Only The Macallan 18 Year Old 1997 Sherry Oak
Only Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)