Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask
Glenmorangie
★ 4.67
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glenmorangie |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.67/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask is more approachable (70/100 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
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.7 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 Glenmorangie?
Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Glenmorangie 12 Year Old - Golden Rum Cask