Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s
Ballantine's
★ 5.00
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Ballantine's |
| Region | Islay | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.5% | 43% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s
Quick verdict
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +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
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
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 Ballantine's?
Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s 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 Ballantine's 21 Year Old - 1980s