Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015) vs Reference Series III.3

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

Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015)Reference Series III.3
DistilleryDalwhinnieReference Series
RegionHighlandOther Scotch
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltBlended Malt
ABV48.8%47.3%
Age25 yrNAS
Price£331.43£270.95
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner55/100
Value15/100

Reference Series III.3

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner55/100
Value18/100

Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Reference Series III.3

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Reference Series III.3 is better value at £271 vs £331.

For beginners: Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).

Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015)

Pros

  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • More expensive (£331.43 vs £270.95)

Reference Series III.3

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£270.95 vs £331.43)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Dalwhinnie?

Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Reference?

Reference Series III.3 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

VanillaMalt ExtractFresh Fruit

Only Dalwhinnie 25 Year Old 1989 (Special Release 2015)

HoneyToasted

Explore more