Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Lagavulin
★ 4.67
£199
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Lagavulin |
| Region | Islay | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 56.5% | 56.4% |
| Age | 12 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £250 | £199 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 4.67/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.67).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020) is better value at £199 vs £250.
For beginners: Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020) is more approachable (25/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +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
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£199 vs £250)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (56.4%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (4.7 vs 5.0)
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 Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020) 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.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Where to buy
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2020)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange