An age statement is one of whisky’s most powerful signals. The higher the number, the rarer, more prestigious and more expensive the bottle appears. But age tells us only how long the youngest whisky spent in cask, not how well it was made or how good it will taste.

Supporters argue extended maturation creates greater depth and complexity. Critics counter that whisky can become overly woody, while younger expressions may offer more vibrancy, distillery character and balance. We asked three whisk(e)y experts to argue a side. Their assigned positions do not necessarily reflect their personal views; the goal is to spark thought and conversation.