Braastad XXO Cognac vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Braastad XXO Cognac | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Braastad | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | Islay |
| Country | United Kingdom | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | |
| ABV | 40% | 56.5% |
| Age | NAS | 12 yr |
| Price | £188 | £250 |
| Rating | — | 5.00/5 |
Braastad XXO Cognac
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Braastad XXO Cognac
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Braastad XXO Cognac is better value at £188 vs £250.
For beginners: Braastad XXO Cognac is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Braastad XXO Cognac
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +More affordable (£188 vs £250)
- +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)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Braastad?
Braastad XXO Cognac suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for 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 Braastad XXO Cognac
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)