Hibiki 21 Year Old vs Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Hibiki 21 Year Old | Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Hibiki | Laphroaig |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 44.4% |
| Age | 21 yr | 28 yr |
| Price | £750 | £999 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Hibiki 21 Year Old
Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release)
Hibiki 21 Year Old
Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release)
Quick verdict
Hibiki 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Hibiki 21 Year Old is better value at £750 vs £999.
For beginners: Hibiki 21 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Hibiki 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (28 vs 21 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£999 vs £750)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Hibiki?
Hibiki 21 Year Old 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 Laphroaig?
Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 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 Hibiki 21 Year Old
Only Laphroaig 28 Year Old (2018 Release)

