Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
Dewar's
★ 5.00
£202
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Dewar's |
| Region | Islay | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 25 yr |
| Price | £250 | £201.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
Quick verdict
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature is better value at £202 vs £250.
For beginners: Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature is more approachable (85/100 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 £201.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£201.99 vs £250)
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 Dewar's?
Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Dewar's 25 Year Old Signature