Glenfarclas 21 Year Old vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old
Glenfarclas
★ 4.12
£195
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Lagavulin
★ 5.00
£250
| Glenfarclas 21 Year Old | Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glenfarclas | Lagavulin |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 56.5% |
| Age | 21 yr | 12 yr |
| Price | £194.9 | £250 |
| Rating | 4.12/5 | 5.00/5 |
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Quick verdict
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017) is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.12).
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old is better value at £195 vs £250.
For beginners: Glenfarclas 21 Year Old is more approachable (70/100 beginner score).
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old
Pros
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +More affordable (£194.9 vs £250)
- +Longer maturation (21 vs 12 years)
Cons
- −Lower community rating (4.1 vs 5.0)
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −High ABV (56.5%) — may need water
- −More expensive (£250 vs £194.9)
- −Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams
Who should buy Glenfarclas?
Glenfarclas 21 Year Old suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside 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 Glenfarclas 21 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2017)