Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky vs Hibiki 21 Year Old

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

Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay WhiskyHibiki 21 Year Old
DistilleryLagavulinHibiki
Region
CountryUnited KingdomJapan
TypeBlended
ABV40%43%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£750£750
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky

Smoke65/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

Hibiki 21 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness75/100
Beginner85/100
Value7/100

Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Hibiki 21 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Hibiki 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Hibiki 21 Year Old is better value at £750 vs £750.

For beginners: Hibiki 21 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Hibiki 21 Year Old

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy Hibiki?

Hibiki 21 Year Old 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

Only Lagavulin 1989 Distillers Edition / Bot.2005 Islay Whisky

SmokeySherriedKipperyOld Wood

Only Hibiki 21 Year Old

HoneyVanillaDried Fruit

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