Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery
DistilleryLagavulinMiyagikyo
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandJapan
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%48%
Age12 yrNAS
Price£250£199
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery

Smoke64/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner45/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery is better value at £199 vs £250.

For beginners: Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery is more approachable (45/100 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)
  • +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

Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +More affordable (£199 vs £250)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

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 Miyagikyo?

Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery 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

Both taste of

Smokey

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

MedicinalOilyKippery

Only Miyagikyo Peated (bottled 2021) - Nikka Discovery

Malt Extract

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