Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) vs Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Lagavulin
★ 4.17
£299
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Glenmorangie
★ 5.00
£399
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) | Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Lagavulin | Glenmorangie |
| Region | Islay | Highland |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 57.9% | 46% |
| Age | 12 yr | 15 yr |
| Price | £299 | £399 |
| Rating | 4.17/5 | 5.00/5 |
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Quick verdict
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.17).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) is better value at £299 vs £399.
For beginners: Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£299 vs £399)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −High ABV (57.9%) — may need water
- −Lower community rating (4.2 vs 5.0)
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Pros
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
- +Longer maturation (15 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −More expensive (£399 vs £299)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) 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 Glenmorangie?
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.
Tasting notes
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Only Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Where to buy
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange