Ardbeg 1978 vs Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)

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

Ardbeg 1978Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)
DistilleryArdbegCaperdonich
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV43%46.6%
Age20 yr36 yr
Price£999£1250
Rating4.00/5

Ardbeg 1978

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value4/100

Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 1978

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 1978 is rated higher (4.00 vs 0.00).

Ardbeg 1978 is better value at £999 vs £1250.

For beginners: Ardbeg 1978 is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 1978

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£999 vs £1250)

Cons

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

Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)

Pros

  • +Longer maturation (36 vs 20 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£1250 vs £999)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 1978 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy Caperdonich?

Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 1978

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyOilyLeathery

Only Caperdonich 36 Year Old 1982 - Private Collection (Gordon & MacPhail)

Old WoodVanillaMalt ExtractToastedNutty

Explore more