Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) vs Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Glen Spey
★ 5.00
£134

Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020
Nikka
£100
| Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) | Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glen Spey | Nikka |
| Region | Speyside | — |
| Country | Scotland | Japan |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended Malt |
| ABV | 50.4% | 43% |
| Age | 21 yr | NAS |
| Price | £133.99 | £99.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020
Quick verdict
Glen Spey 21 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020 is better value at £100 vs £134.
For beginners: Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020 is more approachable (65/100 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 widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (50.4%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£133.99 vs £99.99)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£99.99 vs £133.99)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −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 Nikka?
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020 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 Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt - Pre 2020