Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)
Glentauchers
★ 5.00
£214
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glentauchers |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43.8% |
| Age | 12 yr | 39 yr |
| Price | £250 | £213.51 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)
Quick verdict
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead) is better value at £214 vs £250.
For beginners: Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead) is more approachable (60/100 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 £213.51)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£213.51 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (39 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 Glentauchers?
Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead) 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 Glentauchers 39 Year Old 1976 - Small Batch (WM Cadenhead)