Ardbeg 21 Year Old vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Ardbeg 21 Year Old | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Ardbeg | Lagavulin |
| Region | Islay | — |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 58% |
| Age | 21 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £599 | £499 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002)
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002)
Quick verdict
Ardbeg 21 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002) is better value at £499 vs £599.
For beginners: Ardbeg 21 Year Old is more approachable (45/100 beginner score).
Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£599 vs £499)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +More affordable (£499 vs £599)
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (58%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Ardbeg?
Ardbeg 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 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.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Ardbeg 21 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2002)