Cladach (Special Release 2018) vs Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature

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

Cladach (Special Release 2018)Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
DistilleryDiageoDewar's
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended
ABV57.1%40%
AgeNAS25 yr
Price£149.99£201.99
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

Smoke65/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value33/100

Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value25/100

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Cladach (Special Release 2018) is better value at £150 vs £202.

For beginners: Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£149.99 vs £201.99)
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More widely reviewed by the community
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£201.99 vs £149.99)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Cladach?

Cladach (Special Release 2018) 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.

Who should buy Dewar's?

Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature 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

Both taste of

Old Wood

Only Cladach (Special Release 2018)

SmokeyKipperyLeatheryMossy

Only Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature

SherriedVanillaHoneyDried Fruit

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