Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release)
Glenmorangie
★ 4.53
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glenmorangie |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43% |
| Age | 12 yr | 18 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.53/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.53).
Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release) is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release) is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
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 (2015 Release)
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (18 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.5 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 (2015 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)
Only Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare (2015 Release)