Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice vs Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's ChoiceDalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryArdbegDalmore
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV40.4%42%
Age26 yr25 yr
Price£795£715
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value6/100

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £715 vs £795.

For beginners: Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (26 vs 25 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£795 vs £715)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£715 vs £795)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Ardbeg?

Ardbeg 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice 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 Dalmore?

Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 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 26 Year Old 1991 (cask 1922) - Mackillop's Choice

SmokeyMedicinalOilyLeathery

Only Dalmore 25 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedVanillaOld WoodHoneyDried Fruit

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