Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011 vs Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

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

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
DistilleryArdbegBunnahabhain
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandUnited Kingdom
TypeSingle Malt
ABV55.1%40%
Age13 yrNAS
Price£1999£2000
Rating2.71/5

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011

Smoke64/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner25/100
Value1/100

Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Smoke0/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner65/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011 is rated higher (2.71 vs 0.00).

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011 is better value at £1999 vs £2000.

For beginners: Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (2.7/5)
  • +More affordable (£1999 vs £2000)

Cons

  • High ABV (55.1%) — may need water

Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£2000 vs £1999)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 2.7)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011 is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Bunnahabhain?

Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 1998 - Fèis Ìle 2011

SherriedSmokeyDried FruitChocolate

Only Bunnahabhain 1963 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

OilyLeatherySandyOld Wood

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