Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask vs Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

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

Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single CaskLaphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)
DistilleryGlencadamLaphroaig
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV55%48.9%
Age31 yr25 yr
Price£568.59£399
Rating5.00/5

Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner45/100
Value13/100

Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release) is better value at £399 vs £569.

For beginners: Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask

Pros

  • +Longer maturation (31 vs 25 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (55%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£568.59 vs £399)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£399 vs £568.59)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Glencadam?

Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask is for enthusiasts who appreciate cask-strength intensity. Best enjoyed with a few drops of water to open up the flavours. Not ideal for casual drinking or beginners.

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Only Glencadam 31 Year Old 1989 (cask 2331) - Single Cask

Fresh FruitVanillaHoneyOld WoodToasted

Only Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength (2017 Release)

SmokeySherriedMedicinalKipperyOily

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