Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select
Hibiki
★ 4.26
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Hibiki |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Japan |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.26/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.26).
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select 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)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.3 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 Hibiki?
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select