Hibiki 17 Year Old vs Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
| Hibiki 17 Year Old | Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Hibiki | Lagavulin |
| Region | — | — |
| Country | Japan | Scotland |
| Type | Blended | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 50.9% |
| Age | 17 yr | 21 yr |
| Price | £699 | £999 |
| Rating | 4.75/5 | — |
Hibiki 17 Year Old
Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019
Hibiki 17 Year Old
Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019
Quick verdict
Hibiki 17 Year Old is rated higher (4.75 vs 0.00).
Hibiki 17 Year Old is better value at £699 vs £999.
For beginners: Hibiki 17 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Hibiki 17 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
- +More affordable (£699 vs £999)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 17 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
- +Rich oak and wood spice complexity
Cons
- −High ABV (50.9%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£999 vs £699)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)
Who should buy Hibiki?
Hibiki 17 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Blended character.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019 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 Hibiki 17 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 21 Year Old - Islay Jazz Festival 2019