Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) vs Midleton Very Rare 1985

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

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)Midleton Very Rare 1985
DistilleryLaphroaigMidleton
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandIreland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV46.6%40%
Age32 yrNAS
Price£1500£1999
Rating5.00/53.00/5

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Midleton Very Rare 1985

Smoke0/100
Sweetness58/100
Beginner70/100
Value2/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Midleton Very Rare 1985

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.00).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1999.

For beginners: Midleton Very Rare 1985 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £1999)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Midleton Very Rare 1985

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£1999 vs £1500)
  • Lower community rating (3.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy Midleton?

Midleton Very Rare 1985 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedDried FruitOld Wood

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokeyLeathery

Only Midleton Very Rare 1985

VanillaToasted

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