Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Ardbeg
★ 5.00
£725

Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Caol Ila
£999
| Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) | Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Caol Ila |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 48.1% | 61.7% |
| Age | 24 yr | 23 yr |
| Price | £724.95 | £999 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is better value at £725 vs £999.
For beginners: Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) is more approachable (40/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£724.95 vs £999)
Cons
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (61.7%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£999 vs £724.95)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) 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 Caol?
Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Where to buy
Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Caol Ila 23 Year Old 1978 - Rare Malts
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange