Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002) vs Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

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

Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002)Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)
DistilleryLagavulinLaphroaig
RegionIslayIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV57.2%46.6%
Age25 yr32 yr
Price£1999£1500
Rating5.00/5

Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002)

Smoke63/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value0/100

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner45/100
Value3/100

Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is better value at £1500 vs £1999.

For beginners: Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).

Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Rich oak and wood spice complexity

Cons

  • High ABV (57.2%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£1999 vs £1500)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£1500 vs £1999)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002) 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 Laphroaig?

Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

SmokeyOld Wood

Only Lagavulin 25 Year Old (Special Release 2002)

MedicinalRubbery

Only Laphroaig 32 Year Old (2015 Release)

SherriedDried FruitLeathery

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