Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old
Mars
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Mars |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Japan |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 10 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 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)
- +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 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 Mars?
Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Single Malt character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Mars Maltage Komagatake 10 Year Old