Glen Scotia 21 Year Old vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Glen Scotia
★ 5.00
£260
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| Glen Scotia 21 Year Old | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glen Scotia | Lagavulin |
| Region | Campbeltown | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 46% | 56.5% |
| Age | 21 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £260 | £250 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | 5.00/5 |
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is better value at £250 vs £260.
For beginners: Glen Scotia 21 Year Old is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 12 years)
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£260 vs £250)
- −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
- +More affordable (£250 vs £260)
- +More widely reviewed by the community
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Glen?
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Campbeltown 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 Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
Glen Scotia 21 Year Old
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Where to buy
The Whisky Exchange