Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s
Johnnie Walker
★ 5.00
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Johnnie Walker |
| Region | Islay | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 40% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s
Quick verdict
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £199)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
Cons
- −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 Johnnie?
Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Johnnie Walker Black Label Extra Special - 1970s