Aberlour 25 Year Old 1994 (cask 13520) - Xtra Old Particular (Douglas Laing) vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Aberlour 25 Year Old 1994 (cask 13520) - Xtra Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Aberlour 25 Year Old 1994 (cask 13520) - Xtra Old Particular (Douglas Laing)

Pros

• +More affordable (£246.95 vs £250)
• +Longer maturation (25 vs 12 years)
• +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

• −High ABV (55.9%) — may need water
• −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 £246.95)
• −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Aberlour?

Aberlour 25 Year Old 1994 (cask 13520) - Xtra Old Particular (Douglas Laing) 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 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.