Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)

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

Ardbeg 21 Year OldDalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)
DistilleryArdbegDalmore
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%43.8%
Age21 yr21 yr
Price£599£574.99
Rating5.00/5

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

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

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner75/100
Value0/100

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release) is better value at £575 vs £599.

For beginners: Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£599 vs £574.99)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£574.99 vs £599)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • 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 (2022 Release) is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Tasting notes

Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old

SmokeyMedicinalKipperyLeatheryOily

Only Dalmore 21 Year Old (2022 Release)

SherriedVanillaHoneyDried FruitOld Wood

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