Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007
Bowmore
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Bowmore |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007 is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007 is more approachable (55/100 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
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
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 Bowmore?
Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007 suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Bowmore 12 Year Old - Pre 2007