Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)
Benriach
★ 5.00
£185
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Benriach |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 48.6% |
| Age | 12 yr | 34 yr |
| Price | £250 | £185.13 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)
Quick verdict
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi) is better value at £185 vs £250.
For beginners: Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi) is more approachable (55/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £185.13)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£185.13 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (34 vs 12 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −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 Benriach?
Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Benriach 34 Year Old 1977 (Adelphi)