Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) vs The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973

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

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973
DistilleryLaphroaigThe Macallan
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46.6%43%
Age32 yr18 yr
Price£1500£2500
Rating5.00/5

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973

Smoke0/100
Sweetness71/100
Beginner85/100
Value0/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £2500.

For beginners: The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 is more approachable (85/100 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 £2500)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£2500 vs £1500)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 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 The?

The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973 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.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SherriedDried FruitOld Wood

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokeyLeathery

Only The Macallan 18 Year Old 1973

VanillaHoney

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