Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008) vs Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£299
Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal
Johnnie Walker
★ 5.00
£399
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008) | Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Johnnie Walker |
| Region | Islay | Other Scotch |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Blended |
| ABV | 56.4% | 43.8% |
| Age | 12 yr | NAS |
| Price | £299 | £399 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008)
Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008)
Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008) is better value at £299 vs £399.
For beginners: Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£299 vs £399)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.4%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal
Pros
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£399 vs £299)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2008) 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 Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal 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 2008)
Only Johnnie Walker Blue Label - Ghost & Rare Glenury Royal