Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) vs The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)

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

Ardbeg 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)
DistilleryArdbegThe Macallan
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV48.1%43%
Age24 yr18 yr
Price£724.95£799
Rating5.00/5

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

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

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

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

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

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 £799.

For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release) is more approachable (85/100 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 £799)

Cons

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

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£799 vs £724.95)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • 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 The?

The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 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 24 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company)

SmokeyOilyMedicinal

Only The Macallan 18 Year Old Sherry Oak (2018 Release)

SherriedChocolateVanillaDried Fruit

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