A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes) vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes)
Benrinnes
£188
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes) | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Benrinnes | Lagavulin |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 56.5% |
| Age | 25 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £188.01 | £250 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes)
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes) is better value at £188 vs £250.
For beginners: A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes) is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes)
Pros
- +More affordable (£188.01 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (25 vs 12 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £188.01)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy A?
A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.
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.
Tasting notes
Only A Vibrant Affair 25 Year Old 1997 - Wemyss Malts (Benrinnes)
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)