Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) vs MacNair's Lum Reek
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Dalmore
£31

MacNair's Lum Reek
MacNair's
★ 5.00
£42
| Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) | MacNair's Lum Reek | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Dalmore | MacNair's |
| Region | Highland | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £31.23 | £41.95 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
MacNair's Lum Reek
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
MacNair's Lum Reek
Quick verdict
MacNair's Lum Reek is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is better value at £31 vs £42.
For beginners: Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£31.23 vs £41.95)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
MacNair's Lum Reek
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£41.95 vs £31.23)
Who should buy Dalmore?
Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail) 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.
Who should buy MacNair's?
MacNair's Lum Reek 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
Only Dalmore 1996 (bottled 2008) - Connoisseurs Choice (Gordon & MacPhail)
Only MacNair's Lum Reek