Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Hazelburn 12 Year Old

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Hazelburn 12 Year Old
DistilleryLagavulinSpringbank
RegionIslayCampbeltown
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%46%
Age12 yr12 yr
Price£250£250
Rating5.00/54.58/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value20/100

Hazelburn 12 Year Old

Smoke0/100
Sweetness47/100
Beginner60/100
Value18/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Hazelburn 12 Year Old

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.58).

Hazelburn 12 Year Old is better value at £250 vs £250.

For beginners: Hazelburn 12 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 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)

Cons

  • High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Hazelburn 12 Year Old

Pros

  • +Distinctive flavour profile appreciated by enthusiasts

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 Hazelburn?

Hazelburn 12 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Campbeltown character.

Tasting notes

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

Only Hazelburn 12 Year Old

NuttyHoneyToastedMalt ExtractFresh Fruit

Where to buy

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Hazelburn 12 Year Old

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