Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
Four Roses
★ 5.00
£195
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Four Roses |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | America |
| Type | Single Malt | Bourbon |
| ABV | 56.5% | 57.1% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £194.95 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
Quick verdict
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021 is better value at £195 vs £250.
For beginners: Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021 is more approachable (35/100 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 £194.95)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021
Pros
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£194.95 vs £250)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (57.1%) — may need water
- −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 Four?
Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021 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.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Four Roses Small Batch - Barrel Strength 2021