Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky vs Hibiki 21 Year Old

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

Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch WhiskyHibiki 21 Year Old
DistilleryLaphroaigHibiki
Region
CountryUnited KingdomJapan
TypeBlended
ABV40%43%
AgeNAS21 yr
Price£900£750
Rating5.00/5

Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Hibiki 21 Year Old

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

Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch 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 £900.

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

Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • More expensive (£900 vs £750)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

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 Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch 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 Laphroaig 27 Year Old / Bot.2017 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

SmokeyCitricLeatheryMedicinalOld Wood

Only Hibiki 21 Year Old

HoneyVanillaDried Fruit

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