Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Auchentoshan 21 Year Old 1990 Silveroak

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Auchentoshan 21 Year Old 1990 Silveroak

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
• −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Auchentoshan 21 Year Old 1990 Silveroak

Pros

• +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
• +Longer maturation (21 vs 12 years)

Cons

• −High ABV (51.5%) — may need water
• −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 Auchentoshan?

Auchentoshan 21 Year Old 1990 Silveroak suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.