Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldDalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryArdbegDalmore
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%42%
Age21 yr21 yr
Price£599£699
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner45/100
Value8/100

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness58/100
Beginner70/100
Value7/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is better value at £599 vs £699.

For beginners: Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£599 vs £699)

Cons

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

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£699 vs £599)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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 Dalmore?

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Only Dalmore 21 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedVanillaCooked FruitOld WoodToasted

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