The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask FinishLagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
DistilleryGlenDronachLagavulin
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%56.5%
Age12 yr12 yr
Price£299£250
Rating5.00/55.00/5

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish

Smoke0/100
Sweetness63/100
Beginner60/100
Value17/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value20/100

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is better value at £250 vs £299.

For beginners: The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

Cons

  • More expensive (£299 vs £250)
  • 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
  • +More affordable (£250 vs £299)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy The?

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland 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 GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish

SherriedVanillaHoneyCooked FruitToasted

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

Where to buy

The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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