Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve
Glenrothes
£203
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glenrothes |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43% |
| Age | 12 yr | 25 yr |
| Price | £250 | £202.99 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve is better value at £203 vs £250.
For beginners: Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve 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)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £202.99)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£202.99 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (25 vs 12 years)
- +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 Glenrothes?
Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Glenrothes Ancestors' Reserve