Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13

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

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13
DistilleryLagavulinGlenmorangie
RegionIslayHighland
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV56.5%43%
Age12 yr10 yr
Price£250£199
Rating5.00/55.00/5

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

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

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13

Smoke0/100
Sweetness57/100
Beginner70/100
Value25/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13 is better value at £199 vs £250.

For beginners: Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13 is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Longer maturation (12 vs 10 years)
  • +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 10 Year Old - Cellar 13

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 Glenmorangie?

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - Cellar 13 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 10 Year Old - Cellar 13

VanillaHoneyMalt ExtractFresh FruitFragant

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