Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011) vs Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011)
Lagavulin
★ 3.00
£299

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Glenmorangie
★ 5.00
£399
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011) | Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glenmorangie |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 57.5% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | 15 yr |
| Price | £299 | £399 |
| Rating | 3.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011)
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011)
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Quick verdict
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 3.00).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011) is better value at £299 vs £399.
For beginners: Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£299 vs £399)
Cons
- −High ABV (57.5%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (3.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Longer maturation (15 vs 12 years)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −More expensive (£399 vs £299)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011) 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.
Who should buy Glenmorangie?
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2011)
Only Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition