Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) vs Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Glen Spey
★ 5.00
£134
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Murray McDavid
£220
| Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) | Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glen Spey | Murray McDavid |
| Region | Speyside | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 50.4% | 42.3% |
| Age | 21 yr | 31 yr |
| Price | £133.99 | £219.6 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Quick verdict
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is better value at £134 vs £220.
For beginners: Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More affordable (£133.99 vs £219.6)
Cons
- −High ABV (50.4%) — may need water
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (31 vs 21 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£219.6 vs £133.99)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Glen?
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.
Who should buy Malts?
Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid) 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
Only Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Only Malts of Islay 31 Year Old 1989 - The Vatting (Murray McDavid)