Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary vs Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th AnniversaryAuchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)
DistilleryLagavulinAuchroisk
RegionIslaySpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV57.7%58.1%
Age12 yr20 yr
Price£299£250
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value17/100

Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness61/100
Beginner35/100
Value20/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is better value at £250 vs £299.

For beginners: Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010) is more approachable (35/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • High ABV (57.7%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£299 vs £250)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

Pros

  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£250 vs £299)
  • +Longer maturation (20 vs 12 years)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (58.1%) — may need water
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary 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 Auchroisk?

Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010) 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 Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2016) - 200th Anniversary

SmokeyMedicinalOilyLeathery

Only Auchroisk 20 Year Old (Special Release 2010)

SherriedFresh FruitHoneyVanillaToasted

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