Cladach (Special Release 2018) vs MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

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

Cladach (Special Release 2018)MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)
DistilleryDiageoMacNair's
Region
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlended MaltBlended Malt
ABV57.1%48%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£149.99£125
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

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

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value40/100

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling) is better value at £125 vs £150.

For beginners: MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Cladach (Special Release 2018)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£149.99 vs £125)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£125 vs £149.99)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

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 MacNair's?

MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Cladach (Special Release 2018)

KipperyOld WoodLeatheryMossy

Only MacNair's Lum Reek 21 Year Old (Old Bottling)

SherriedDried FruitOily

Explore more