Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Ardbeg |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 43% |
| Age | 21 yr | 23 yr |
| Price | £599 | £750 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £750.
For beginners: Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£599 vs £750)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (23 vs 21 years)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£750 vs £599)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 21 Year Old 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 Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Only Ardbeg 23 Year Old 1974 - Signatory

