Glenfarclas 40 Year Old vs Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Glenfarclas 40 Year Old
Glenfarclas
★ 5.00
£1275

Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Lagavulin
£1999
| Glenfarclas 40 Year Old | Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021) | |
|---|---|---|
| Distillery | Glenfarclas | Lagavulin |
| Region | Speyside | Islay |
| Country | Scotland | Scotland |
| Type | Single Malt | Single Malt |
| ABV | 43% | 44.2% |
| Age | 40 yr | 26 yr |
| Price | £1275 | £1999 |
| Rating | 5.00/5 | — |
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old
Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old
Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Quick verdict
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old is better value at £1275 vs £1999.
For beginners: Glenfarclas 40 Year Old is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old
Pros
- +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
- +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
- +Better value for money
- +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
Cons
- −Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)
Pros
- +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
- +Vibrant, fresh fruit character
Cons
- −More expensive (£1999 vs £1275)
- −Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
Who should buy Glenfarclas?
Glenfarclas 40 Year Old is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.
Who should buy Lagavulin?
Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021) suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.
Tasting notes
Both taste of
Only Glenfarclas 40 Year Old
Only Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021)