Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private EditionLagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)
DistilleryGlenmorangieLagavulin
RegionHighlandIslay
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeSingle MaltSingle Malt
ABV46%57.9%
Age15 yr12 yr
Price£399£299
Rating5.00/54.17/5

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition

Smoke0/100
Sweetness60/100
Beginner60/100
Value13/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness50/100
Beginner25/100
Value14/100

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.17).

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) is better value at £299 vs £399.

For beginners: Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition is more approachable (60/100 beginner score).

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition

Pros

  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +Longer maturation (15 vs 12 years)

Cons

  • More expensive (£399 vs £299)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +More affordable (£299 vs £399)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • High ABV (57.9%) — may need water
  • Lower community rating (4.2 vs 5.0)

Who should buy Glenmorangie?

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Highland character.

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009) 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 Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition

SherriedVanillaToastedOld Wood

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

SmokeyMedicinalOilyDried FruitLeathery

Where to buy

Glenmorangie Artein 15 Year Old Private Edition

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2009)

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