Bushmills 2002 (bottled 2022) Vermouth Cask Finish - The Causeway Collection vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Bushmills 2002 (bottled 2022) Vermouth Cask Finish - The Causeway Collection

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)

Bushmills 2002 (bottled 2022) Vermouth Cask Finish - The Causeway Collection

Pros

• +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
• +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
• +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

• −More expensive (£299 vs £250)
• −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 affordable (£250 vs £299)

Cons

• −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
• −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Bushmills?

Bushmills 2002 (bottled 2022) Vermouth Cask Finish - The Causeway Collection suits those who enjoy sweet, honeyed, or fruity whiskies. It's accessible for beginners and crowd-pleasing enough for gifts. Fans of approachable Speyside or Irish whiskey will love it.

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.