Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye
Michter's Distillery
£200
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Michter's Distillery |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Rye |
| ABV | 56.5% | 46.4% |
| Age | 12 yr | 10 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye is better value at £200 vs £250.
For beginners: Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199.95)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye
Pros
- +More affordable (£199.95 vs £250)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
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.
Who should buy Michter’s?
Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Rye character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Michter’s 10 Year Old Rye