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 Finish
GlenDronach
★ 5.00
£299

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | GlenDronach | Lagavulin |
| Region | Highland | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 56.5% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £299 | £250 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
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
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
The GlenDronach 12 Year Old - Sauternes Cask Finish
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange