Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s vs Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)

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

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950sLagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)
DistilleryGordon'sLagavulin
RegionIslay
CountryUnited KingdomScotland
TypeSingle Malt
ABV40%56.1%
AgeNAS12 yr
Price£250£299
Rating4.71/5

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s

Smoke0/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner65/100
Value0/100

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner20/100
Value16/100

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012) is rated higher (4.71 vs 0.00).

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s is better value at £250 vs £299.

For beginners: Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s is more approachable (65/100 beginner score).

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s

Pros

  • +More affordable (£250 vs £299)
  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.7)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.7/5)
  • +More widely reviewed by the community

Cons

  • High ABV (56.1%) — may need water
  • More expensive (£299 vs £250)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Who should buy Gordons?

Gordons Gin / Bot.1950s suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for character.

Who should buy Lagavulin?

Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012) 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

Both taste of

Citric

Only Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2012)

SmokeyMedicinalOily

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