Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250

Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port
Taylor's
£195
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Taylor's |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | United Kingdom |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £195 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port is better value at £195 vs £250.
For beginners: Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port 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 £195)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£195 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 Taylor's?
Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Taylor's 40 Year Old Tawny Port