Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled
Benriach
£190
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Benriach |
| Region | Islay | Speyside |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 46.8% |
| Age | 12 yr | 22 yr |
| Price | £250 | £190 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled is better value at £190 vs £250.
For beginners: Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled 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 £190)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled
Pros
- +More affordable (£190 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (22 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 Benriach?
Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Benriach 22 Year Old Triple Distilled