Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Springbank |
| Region | Islay | Campbeltown |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 43.2% |
| Age | 21 yr | 21 yr |
| Price | £599 | £499 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release) is better value at £499 vs £599.
For beginners: Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 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 £499)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£499 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 Hazelburn?
Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 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
Only Hazelburn 21 Year Old (2023 Release)