Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

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

Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022
Hibiki
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Hibiki |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Japan |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 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 £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£199 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 Hibiki?
Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 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 Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022