Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
The Blended Whisky Company
★ 5.00
£200
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | The XXX Blend - Batch 1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | The Blended Whisky Company |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 42.5% |
| Age | 12 yr | 30 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Quick verdict
The XXX Blend - Batch 1 is better value at £200 vs £250.
For beginners: The XXX Blend - Batch 1 is more approachable (70/100 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 £199.95)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
The XXX Blend - Batch 1
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199.95 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (30 vs 12 years)
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 The?
The XXX Blend - Batch 1 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 The XXX Blend - Batch 1