Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs Midleton Very Rare 2018

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

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)Midleton Very Rare 2018
DistilleryArdbegMidleton
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV48.1%40%
Age24 yrNAS
Price£724.95£699
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner40/100
Value7/100

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Smoke0/100
Sweetness66/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 2018

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Midleton Very Rare 2018 is better value at £699 vs £725.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 2018 is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£724.95 vs £699)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Midleton Very Rare 2018

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£699 vs £724.95)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

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 Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 2018 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 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyOilyMedicinal

Only Midleton Very Rare 2018

HoneyVanillaMalt ExtractFresh Fruit

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