Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)
Arran
★ 4.60
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Arran |
| Region | Islay | Island |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.60/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.60).
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.6 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 Arran?
Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release) 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 Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Arran 18 Year Old (2015 Release)