Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)
DistilleryLagavulinGlenmorangie
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%43%
Age12 yr18 yr
Price£250£199
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Smoke67/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value20/100

Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)

Smoke0/100
Sweetness59/100
Beginner70/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release) is better value at £199 vs £250.

For beginners: Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release) 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

Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
  • +Longer maturation (18 vs 12 years)
  • +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 Glenmorangie?

Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Tasting notes

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyKippery

Only Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2007 Release)

VanillaHoneyFresh FruitOld WoodFragant

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