The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
Murray McDavid
£184
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Murray McDavid | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Blended Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46.7% | 56.5% |
| Age | 35 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £183.59 | £250 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) is better value at £184 vs £250.
For beginners: The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
Pros
- +More affordable (£183.59 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (35 vs 12 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £183.59)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy The?
The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended Malt character.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) 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.
Tasting notes
Only The Fiddichside 35 Year Old 1989 - Mission Gold (Murray McDavid)
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)