Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£599
Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Bowmore
£700
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Bowmore |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 46% | 40% |
| Age | 21 yr | NAS |
| Price | £599 | £700 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £700.
For beginners: Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 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 £700)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −More expensive (£700 vs £599)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
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 Bowmore?
Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s 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
Both taste of
Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Only Bowmore 12 Year Old / Bot.1980s Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky