Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky vs Midleton Very Rare 2016

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

Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay WhiskyMidleton Very Rare 2016
DistilleryArdbegMidleton
Region
CountryUnited KingdomIreland
TypeBlended
ABV40%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£1200£799
Rating4.91/5

Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

Smoke64/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Midleton Very Rare 2016

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner70/100
Value6/100

Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 2016

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Midleton Very Rare 2016 is rated higher (4.91 vs 0.00).

Midleton Very Rare 2016 is better value at £799 vs £1200.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2016 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£1200 vs £799)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.9)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Midleton Very Rare 2016

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.9/5)
  • +More affordable (£799 vs £1200)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 2016 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 1978 / Bot.1990s / Connoisseurs Choice Islay Whisky

SmokeyOld WoodLeathery

Only Midleton Very Rare 2016

VanillaHoneyToastedDried FruitSherried

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